| Cold |
- use of superficial cold source
applied to remove heat from an affected area
- causes vasoconstriction and slows
metabolic rate of tissue reactions, reducing inflammation,
swelling and pain
- most effective in acute inflammatory
phase following tissue trauma
- may also be used during later healing
stages to minimize inflammation following rehabilitative
exercises
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| Heat |
- use of superficial heat source
to apply heat to an affected area
- enhances the healing process by
increasing local circulation and metabolic rate of
tissue reactions (increased rate of delivery of nutrients
to and waste products from affected tissues)
- may be used to warm tissues prior
to exercise or stretching (heat increases extensibility
of tissues allowing for greater flexibility and more
effective stretching)
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