Thermal Therapies

We do not use a lot of Thermal Therapies during your treatment session but we will certainly advise you if Heat or Ice will help you in your injury recovery or pain management.

Clients often ask which is best – Ice or Heat?

As a general rule:

• Apply Ice if there is sharp pain, it is an acute injury, there is swelling present

• Apply Heat if there is dull pain, it is a chronic injury and there is no swelling present

If you have injured yourself then it is best to follow the R.I.C.E.R method (pictured). Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation and Referral (see a health professional). Follow this with the H.A.R.M method to avoid further inflammation.

If we choose to use Thermal therapies it will be for a specific benefit

Ice Application –

• Can reduce swelling pre and post treatment
• Can provide pain relief to an acute injury

Can assist in reducing the extent of bruising

Your therapist may use ice packs, ice gels or cold sprays during your treatment or       will advise use of gels/packs for home care

Heat Application –

• Can assist in heating the tissues pre and post treatment
• Increase localise blood flow to assist recovery
• Can provide pain relief to a chronic injury/condition
• Produce a relaxing effect on the body
• Heat packs may be used in treatment or advised for home care