Sports Medicine Thermotherapy

Discussion Scenario A tennis player who has been diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) wants to start using heat before his practices and matches. He wants to know what type of heat will be most effective and how long he needs to apply the heat. What would you tell him? Be prepared to share your response with the class.

Objectives Review the physiological effects of heat Explain the indications and contraindications of heat Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of specific heat modalities

Terminology __________________________ – using a source of heat for treatment

Physiological Effects of Heat Decreased ______________________ Increased _______________________ Increased metabolism Increased tissue elasticity Decreased joint stiffness

Indications of Thermotherapy Chronic _____________________ Muscle ______________________

Contraindications of Thermotherapy __________________________ Areas of decreased sensation/circulation Over the abdomen during pregnancy Area over tumor/malignant tissue Peripheral vascular disease

Warm Whirlpool What it is: Basin filled with _______ to _______ water Heating through _________ & _________ When it’s used: Treating an injured extremity Advantages: Effective cooling in __________ minutes Treat _____________ areas Disadvantages: Clean after each use to prevent infection Prep time Can’t be transported Constant supervision

Hydrocollator (Heat) Pack What it is: A moist heat pack filled with gel and stored in ________ water bath Wrapped in towels to prevent burning When it’s used: Applied over large areas Advantages: Superficial heating in __________ minutes Reusable Conforms to areas Disadvantages: Hydrocollator requires electricity (not transportable)

Paraffin Bath What it is: Basin filled with paraffin and mineral oil heated to ________________ Extremity is dipped 6 times, then wrapped in plastic bag When it’s used: Chronic pain/swelling in _________________ Advantages: Treatment time varies from ______________ minutes Disadvantages: Messy application Risk of infection (replace wax often) Treatment area limited Supervision required