Hot & Cold Therapy Products

Cryotherapy simply translates to ‘cold therapy.’ The term has been most closely associated with applying extreme cold to deep freeze abnormal body tissue. Used for many ailments, this form of cryotherapy should be administered solely by a healthcare professional. Other forms of cryotherapy can be administered in a home setting to alleviate pain and control swelling with products like Soft Comfort CorPak reusable hot/cold packs or Chattanooga ColPaCs flexible gel ice packs. For severe injury, swelling or pain always consult a physician before self-treating.

Traditional Hot Stone Massage uses a combination of warmed basalt stones, massage oil, and massage technique to promote relaxation and pain relief. Firstly the massage stones are heated in a hot stone warmer. Using a skimmer or tongs, the therapist will remove the stones from the warmer and place them strategically along pressure points thought to balance spiritual energy and release stress – typically along the spine, between the toes, or on the back of knees. Then the therapist will use a preferred oil to gently massage the body. Some therapists will choose to use the heated stones as extensions of their hands for a deep muscle massage. In addition to full body massage, hot stones can be used to enhance facial treatments, pedicures, and manicures.

A form of deep heat therapy, paraffin treatments offer pain relief as well as moisturizing. Clients dip their hands and/or feet into a liquified paraffin wax bath encasing the area with a soft shell of warmth. As the wax solidifies, heat transfers to the affected area and is known to increase circulation, relieve pain and stiffness, and increase blood supply which aids in softening and moisturizing the skin. After a period of time, the soft shell of wax is peeled away from the treatment area resulting in supple, well-hydrated skin and an ultimate sense of relaxation.

Dry heating pads heat up quickly and tend to stay warmer longer than moist heat packs. Generally they are easier to apply to affected areas and some say dry heat feels the best during application. Conversely moist heating pads promote tissue elasticity and will not dehydrate the skin, promote a deeper penetration of the tissue, and offer a longer lasting effect by improving circulation.

Although unit size, towel capacity and distinguishing features like temperature control and ultraviolet sterilization vary from unit to unit, the basic steps for using a hot towel warmer remain similar. Please note that some units have a built-in steaming function while others require the towels to be damp before placing in the hot towel warmer.

• Most hot towel cabinets require electrical power; plug in unit
• Dampen towels, if necessary
• Fold and roll towels
• Add evenly rolled towels to unit as directed by the manufacturer
• Turn the unit on

As unit functionality varies, please consult the manufacturer’s instructions before operating a hot towel cabinet.