Pain from musculoskeletal conditions may be debilitating and affect the day to day life of patients. The pain such as knee pain or hip pain may begin suddenly after an injury or maybe a result of a long-standing underlying condition. The physicians usually prescribe conservative management for musculoskeletal pain unless surgery is immediately required.
Heat, cold, and compression therapy forms an essential part of conservative management. The heat therapy helps to increase the blood flow to the involved tissues. The increased blood flow provides more nutrients and oxygen to the tissue, which results in the acceleration of the healing process. The heat also soothes the pain and relaxes the muscles. The heat therapy is usually utilized for chronic painful conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
The cold therapy or cryotherapy, on the other hand, acts by decreasing the blood supply. The treatment is typically used in sudden injuries resulting in bruises or swelling. The reduced blood supply reduces inflammation and swelling. The cold temperature soothes the nerves transmitting pain, thereby alleviating pain.
Similarly, compression therapy is utilized for decreasing the swelling and relaxing the muscles. The heat, cold, and compression therapies, while being beneficial, should be used with caution in patients with underlying systemic diseases such as diabetes, dermatitis, infection, or neuropathies.
Video demonstrating the Triple Therapy Device.
Disclaimer – The above video content is external and shows the opinion of the involved vendor.
Dr. Mo Athar
