Home » Natural Remedies » Contrast Baths

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This treatment is based on the principle that by alternate contraction and dilation of the blood vessels, brought about by the contrasting application of heat and cold, the circulation is improved and the removal of waste products is hastened. Hydrotherapy in the Home p. 12

Definition - the immersion of a body part alternately in hot and cold water

A. PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS

• Alternate contraction and dilation of blood vessels (vascular gymnastic)
• Marked increase of blood flow locally and by reflect (derivative effect)
• Increased metabolism and oxidation hastens healing
• Increased white blood cell activity

B. INDICATIONS

1. Congestive headaches
2. Infections (give treatment 2-6 times per day to stimulate local defense against infection)
3. Sprains, strains, and other traumas
4. Poor circulation, congestions, indolent ulcers
5. Osteoarthritis

C. CONTRAIDICATIONS

1. Loss of feeling in the feet or legs.
2. Extreme peripheral vascular disease of the feet or legs.
3. Hemorrhage.

E. EQUIPMENT

1. Two containers large enough to allow body part to be immersed completely.
2. Thermometer
3. Drape sheet or gown.
4. Thick towels.
5. Cold compress for head or neck, ice bag for heart if necessary.
6. Pitcher to add hot water.
7. Container to heat water in.
8. Ice for cold compress and cold bath if desired.

F. PROCEDURE

1. Important Considerations
   • If a large part of the body is treated, used cold compress to head and neck (ice bag to heart if pulse goes over 80 BPM).
   • Do not use temperatures over 115° F. (46°C)
   • Temperatures above 103° F (39°C) should not be used in cases of blood vessel disease of he legs and feet. Extremes of hot and cold should not be used on patients with ‘peripheral vascular disease’ (this is different from varicose veins) or diabetes.
   • Begin hot immersion at lower limit than tolerance, increasing the temperature during the application. With subsequent applications, gradually reach the maximum temperature tolerated.
2. Preparation for Treatment.
   • Assemble the necessary materials.
   • Have treatment room warm and free of drafts.
   • Explain the procedure to the patient.
   • Check the patient’s pulse.
   • Assist the patient as necessary.
3. Treatment
   • Place area to be treated in hot water (about 103° to 105° F or 39°C to 41°C) and quickly increase temperature to the highest you intend to use for that treatment. Continue for 3-4 minutes.
   • Place part in cold water (tap or ice) for 30 seconds to one minute.
   • While the patient is in the cold water, add hot water to at least maintain temperature.
   • Check patient’s pulse every five minutes; apply cold compress to neck and ice bag to heart, if needed by heart patients.
   • Make 6-8 changes, ending with cold. In rheumatoid arthritis, finish with a hot application. Total treatment time should be 20 – 30 minutes.
   • Dry thoroughly and give cooling measure if need
4. Completion of Treatment
   • Encourage patient to rest for at least one half hour.
   • Thorough cleansing of equipment is essential. Use a disinfectant when treating open wounds.