Are you experiencing discomfort in your daily life and wondering if physical therapy might be right for you? Our experts at Twin Boro Physical Therapy can assess your condition and help you determine the best course of action. To get started today, Lyndhurst, New Jersey residents should visit one of our convenient Twin Boro locations in Hoboken, New Jersey.
Twin Boro Physical Therapy employs hand therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. Many of our experienced professionals have been treating patients for over 25 years. In addition to this, at Twin Boro, we encourage continuing education for each of our therapists to keep up to date with the latest techniques and methods in rehabilitative care.
For each of our patients, we will pair you one-on-one with a physical therapist. With this, you will directly discuss your treatment plan and ask any questions. Your therapist will also closely monitor your progress and make real-time adjustments to your training plan based on what you are responding well to and in what areas you are making the most progress.
What is Heat Therapy?
Heat therapy is when heat is applied to an injured area to promote blood flow and healing. This is most common with chronic pain and injuries that were sustained over 48 hours prior. Heat can be applied much longer than ice, and the two modalities can be combined to increase circulation, cellular metabolism, and healing.
What are the types of Heat Therapy?
Common ways heat therapy is applied include:
- Use of heating pads, hot water bottles, electrical heating pads, or other heating devices that can be purchased.
- Soaking in a hot bath or hot tub
- Using a paraffin heated wax treatment
- Capsicum patches or rubs that medically warm the area
Heat therapy can be dry or wet, with dry heat being able to be applied for up to 8 hours and wet heat up to 2 hours. In normal circumstances, heat therapy should be applied for bursts of 20 minutes. A physical therapist can advise in the best use for your particular condition.
What conditions benefit from heat therapy?
Heat therapy is used for many conditions, but some of the most beneficial uses include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendonitis
- Chronic irritation of the soft tissue
- Warming up before activity
- Relieving soreness
- Relieving chronic pain
- Sprains
- Strains
- Headaches (application to the neck)
When should you not use heat therapy?
In general, heat should not be used for recent injuries, infections, or burns. This is because the area is already hot or inflamed and further heating will not improve the condition. Avoid heat on the following:
- Areas where the skin is already hot or inflamed
- Dermatitis
- Open wounds
- Numb areas
- Areas with nerve damage
Heat is often used in conjunction with ice therapy, and an expert physical therapist can help direct you in the proper application of these therapies.
Contact Us Today!
Lyndhurst, New Jersey residents should waste no time contacting our Twin Boro Physical Therapy Hoboken office for high-quality, affordable, and unbeatable rehabilitative care. To contact us today, call 201-963-8808 or visit our website.
