Whirlpool therapy uses agitated water to transfer energy via convection to and from muscles. When hot water is used, the heat is transferred to the body. When cold water is used, the heat is transferred away from the body. Whirlpool therapy is done in a large tub. A turbine regulates the rate at which the water moves and the amount of air injected into the water.
Benefits
Whirlpool treatments can be used for damaged muscles by using either hot or cold water. In addition, the large tub allows for range of motion exercises to be done in the water. The movement of the water massages the targeted muscles, increases circulation and decreases pain by relaxing muscle spasms.
Indications for Use
When muscles are tight, they cause pain and decrease the range of motion in the surrounding joints. The benefits of whirlpool therapy treat these symptoms effectively. In addition, it can be used to treat chronic inflammation in and around muscle tissue.
Contraindications for Use
Even though whirlpool therapy can be an effective treatment option, there are a few indicators that make it harmful to use; for example, if the damaged muscle is made worse by movement, if the patient has a fever, and if the body part exhibits any skin disorders or open wounds. Those suffering from cardiopulmonary conditions can still use whirlpool therapy, but vital signs must be monitored throughout treatment and extra caution taken in setting appropriate temperatures.
Temperature
The temperature used for whirlpool therapy depends on area size of the muscle being treated. Cold is set between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but the temperature is decreased if the full body is immersed. Heat is set between 90 to 110 degrees; however, the temperature is also decreased if the full body is immersed.
Duration
Typically, treatments last between five to 10 minutes and can be increased, over time, to 20 to 30 minutes. If the goal of treatment is to induce thermal effects primarily, treatment is 20 minutes. As an exception, elderly patients should not exceed treatment over 10 minutes. Whirlpool therapy can be used one or two times per day.
References
- "Therapeutic Modalities"; Chad Starkey; 2004
- "Physical Therapist's Clinical Companion"; Springhouse Corporation; 2000
