termoterapii

Termoterapii, also known as thermotherapy, refers to the application of heat to body tissues for therapeutic purposes. It is used to relieve pain, reduce muscle spasm, improve joint mobility, and support the healing process in various musculoskeletal conditions. Thermotherapy is commonly employed for non-acute conditions and in some subacute situations to prepare tissues for exercise.

The therapeutic effects of heat arise from increased tissue temperature and blood flow, which can enhance tissue elasticity, decrease joint stiffness, and raise metabolic activity in the treated area. Heat may also produce analgesia through mechanisms such as distraction and modulation of pain signals at the spinal level. These effects can contribute to reduced pain and improved range of motion in certain patients.

Common methods of thermotherapy include superficial moist heat (hot packs, warm towels, steamed baths), dry heat (electric heating pads, hot water bottles), hydrotherapy (warm baths or whirlpools), and paraffin wax baths for hands or feet. Infrared heating and some clinician-delivered deep heating modalities are also used in specific settings. The depth and intensity of heating vary with the method and may be adjusted to patient needs.

Indications for thermotherapy include chronic pain, muscle tension, stiffness, and subacute injuries where warming the tissues can facilitate movement and exercise. It is generally avoided in acute inflammation, active infection, significantly impaired sensation, skin lesions, or known heat sensitivity. Care is needed to prevent burns, such as using a barrier layer, testing temperature, and avoiding prolonged exposure or sleeping with active heating devices.

Evidence on effectiveness varies by condition; thermotherapy is typically one component of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan and is tailored to the individual patient.