When might cold therapy be used?
Cold is commonly used for short-term symptom relief after a recent minor soft-tissue injury or where swelling and soreness are present.
When might heat be used?
Heat may be used for muscular comfort or stiffness where there is no reason to avoid warming the area.
How does a therapy strap help?
A multi-positional strap can hold a reusable gel pad over different parts of the foot, heel, ankle or lower leg without having to hold it by hand.
How should the skin be protected?
Follow the product instructions and avoid placing a pad at an extreme temperature directly against unprotected skin. Check the skin regularly during use.
How long should therapy be applied?
Use the duration stated in the product instructions or your clinician’s advice. Longer application is not necessarily better and can increase the risk of skin injury.
When should heat or cold be avoided without advice?
- where sensation is reduced;
- where circulation is poor or uncertain;
- over damaged or infected skin;
- where there is unexplained severe pain or swelling;
- when a clinician has advised against temperature therapy.
Important: Stop immediately if the skin becomes excessively painful, numb, very pale, blistered or unusually discoloured.
