What is Thermotherapy?
Thermotherapy is a therapeutic rehabilitation technique that alternates between superficial heat therapy and cryotherapy.
Within your pet's body, the process of heat therapy increases the metabolism and in turn, causes a thermoregulatory effect on the blood vessels. This effect is what causes an improvement in cellular nutrition which will allow an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect to take place during your pet's recovery.
This technique will help to reduce the pain that your pet is experiencing and increases healing and relaxation.
Our veterinarians may advise thermotherapy to be done at home to complement treatments done at our hospital.
Uses for Cryotherapy in Pets
Cryotherapy, or cold therapy, constricts blood vessels and reduces pain, muscle spasms, and cellular metabolism.
The following may be treated using cryotherapy:
- Trauma
- Acute arthritis and tendonitis
- Muscle damage
- Swelling and inflammation
- Chronic and postoperative pain
- Reducing anxiety and depression
Cryotherapy Modalities
Cryotherapy at Crestview Animal Hospital can include the use of ice massage, cold whirlpool, ice immersion, and cold compression.
Uses for Superficial Heat Therapy in Pets
Superficial heat therapy improves circulation and flexibility of the fibrous tissues while reducing pain and muscle tension.
The following may be treated using heat therapy:
- Chronic arthritis
- Spondylarthrosis
- Muscle tightness and tension
- To prepare tendons and ligaments for exercise
- To warm muscles prior to massage and
- Prior to local electrical stimulation
Superficial Heat Therapy Modalities
Some of the more commonly used modalities for superficial heat therapy include heating pads, hot packs, paraffin baths, infrared, and fluidotherapy.