Thermotherapy

The term «thermotherapy» covers both cold applications (cryotherapy) and heat applications.

Cold applications (cryotherapy)

Cryotherapy involves the local application of ice (at about –18ºC) for approx. 10 minutes or immersion of individual extremities in an ice bath (cold water containing ice cubes or ice chips). Cryotherapy exerts a therapeutic effect by reducing peripheral excitability and nerve conduction speed, raising the pain threshold, and improving blood circulation.

Heat applications

Heat is usually applied via a «hot roll» or fango mudpack. Heat applications have the following general effects:

• improved circulation
  
• stimulation of the immune system
  
• reduction of muscle tone
  
• ending spasms (spasmolysis)
  
• alleviating pain
  
• general relaxation
  
• indirect positive effect on internal organs
  
• activation of the lymph system