If you have recently undergone surgery or are suffering from an injury, then you already know how difficult it can be to find pain relief. There are countless treatments available, but many of them come with unpleasant side effects. Learn how whirlpool therapy can provide relief for various injuries and conditions!
What Is Whirlpool Therapy?
Whirlpool therapy is used to improve circulation, mobility, and provide comfort following an injury or surgery. Whirlpool therapy is a type of hydrotherapy that uses a jet of water to massage the body. The pressure of the water can help to loosen muscle tension and increase blood flow to the area, which can speed up healing. Whirlpool therapy is often used to treat injuries, pain, and swelling. It can also be used as a way to relax the muscles and ease tension headaches.
How Does Whirlpool Therapy Work?
The body part being treated will be placed in a tub of water with a motorized agitator. The temperature of the water will depend on the goals of therapy, but can range from 50-110°F. For contrast bath, there will be one cold whirlpool and one warm whirlpool that will be used alternately for 2-3 minutes at a time. We also use cryokinetic, which are a range of motion exercises that are performed while the injured body part is submerged. Treatment ranges from 10-15 minutes. When immersing your body in warm water, the blood vessels dilate and muscles begin to relax.
Three Different Types of Whirlpools
When it comes to whirlpool therapy, there are typically three different kinds you can recommended. From warm whirlpool, to cold whirlpool, to contrast baths, we are going to break down the differences.
Warm Whirlpool (98-110°F to patient comfort)- Increases circulation by opening up small arteries in the body, bringing fresh blood supply, oxygen, cells, and nutrients to the injured area.
Cold Whirlpool (50-60°F to patient comfort)- Cold whirlpools cause arteries in the body to close, which decreases circulation to manage inflammation and swelling of the injured body part.
Contrast Bath- Uses alternating cold and warm whirlpool therapy on the same body part. It creates rapid opening and closing of the arteries to create a pumping effect, which helps decrease swelling.
What Conditions Does Whirlpool Therapy Treat?
Whirlpool therapy is used for a number of different reasons, so we put together a list with the top ailments people typically receive this treatment for:
– Ankle fracture
– Plantar fasciitis
– Lisfranc dislocation
– Colles’ and Smith’s fractures
– Ankle sprain
– Achilles rupture
– Achilles tendonitis
– Pre-and post surgical lower leg injuries
– Hand, wrist and elbow injuries
Benefits of Whirlpool Therapy
Whirlpool therapy has a number of benefits for people who suffer from chronic pain. In addition to providing relief from pain, it can also help to:
– Increase range of motion
– Improve circulation
– Decrease inflammation
– Reduce muscle tension
– Speed up healing
– Ease anxiety and stress
Whirlpool therapy is a safe and effective way to find relief from chronic pain without the use of medication. It’s also a great way to relax the muscles and ease tension headaches. If you’re looking for an alternative treatment for your chronic pain, AccuCare Physical Therapy in Brick, NJ offers whirlpool therapy. Contact us today to see if whirlpool therapy may be right for you.