Hot and Cold Therapy
What is Heat and Cold Therapy?
Chiropractors often use a combination of heat and cold therapy to help patients manage back pain, particularly after treatments like DRX9000 spinal decompression for those recovering from car accidents or injuries. Following a session of DRX9000 therapy, cold therapy may be applied to reduce inflammation and numb the affected area, typically for 10 to 15 minutes. This is often followed by the application of moist heat to restore blood flow and promote faster healing.
Cold therapy works by causing vasoconstriction, or the narrowing of blood vessels, which helps reduce swelling and pain. This method is especially effective for managing the inflammation that often accompanies injuries, and it is commonly administered through ice packs or brief ice baths.
Heat therapy, on the other hand, relaxes muscles and joints, making it ideal for alleviating long-lasting or chronic pain. Various forms of heat therapy can be used, including commercial heat packs, heating pads, and both moist and dry heat packs. Your chiropractor may incorporate heat therapy into your treatment plan alongside cold therapy, exercise, and massage to enhance overall effectiveness.
By dilating blood vessels in the treated areas, heat therapy increases blood flow, which can help relax stiff, sore muscles and improve flexibility. This enhanced circulation supports the body's natural healing processes, making it an essential part of your recovery journey.
To discover if this is an appropriate treatment for you by a wellness clinic Tampa professional, please contact us for a consultation!