Mission Statement |
Our primary mission with each patient is to identify the cause of pain or loss of function. We evaluate each patient at the area of complaints as well as the contribution of the surrounding areas to the identified problem. Our approach on patient function at home and work versus focusing on symptoms alone. We achieve patient goals by assessing and treating muscle imbalances, poor posture as well as functional status. |
| Heat vs. Cold |
| How do you know when to use heat and when to use cold? The general rule is, use ice initially for injuries the first 48 - 72 hours then switch to using heat. |
| There are 2 basic types of injuries: |
|
| Generally an acute injury is the result of impact or trauma such as a fall, sprain or collision. Chronic injury may be the result of overuse or can be because of an acute injury not healing properly or not given proper treatment. |
Cold therapy vasoconstricts blood vessels resulting in a reduction of swelling of the surrounding tissue or a reduction in inflammation of a muscle or tendon. Whereas, heat causes vasodilation allowing blood vessels to expand creating more blood flow, permitting muscles to relax, decrease stiffness and promote healing. |
| Cold therapy is best for an acute injury because it helps to reduce swelling and pain. Apply a cold pack for 10 - 15 minutes at a time. Before icing again, allow the skin to return to normal temperature. You can ice several times a day for the first 48 - 72 hours. |
| Heat therapy is best for a chronic injury because it helps to relax the muscle. Heat can help to relieve sore, stiff aching muscles. Use heat for 15 - 20 minutes at a time. Make sure you use enough layers between your skin and heat to prevent burns. NEVER leave heat on for more than 20 minutes at a time or while sleeping to reduce the risk of a burn. |
| ©2005 Biomax Rehabilitation All Rights Reserved |