Paraffin wax bath therapy .
Paraffin wax bath therapy is an application of molten paraffin wax over the body parts. The temperature of the paraffin wax is maintained at 40–44ºC, whereas its melting point is 51–55ºC. If the molten wax at 51–55ºC is poured on the body parts, it may cause burn over the body tissues, that is why some impurity is added to lower down its melting point such as liquid paraffin or mineral oil. Paraffin wax bath therapy provides about six times the amount of heat available in water because the mineral oil in the paraffin lowers its melting point.
The combination of paraffin and mineral oil has low specific heat which enhances the patient’s ability to tolerate heat from paraffin better than that from the water of the same temperature. The composition of solid wax: liquid paraffin: petroleum jelly is 7 : 3 : 1 or solid wax : liquid paraffin or mineral oil is 7 : 1. The mode of transmission of heat from paraffin to the patient skin is by means of conduction.
Paraffin Wax Bath Unit .
Parts of a typical Paraffin wax bath unit are stainless steel container, mains, thermostat, thermostat pilot lamp, power pilot lamp, lid and caster . Initially, heating is quicker with this type because there is no water jacket to be heated. Container contains wax and paraffin oil. Mains function is to switch on or off the heating element, which is located in the casing of paraffin wax bath unit.
Thermostat keeps the temperature fixed or static in the range which is adjusted with knob. Thermostat pilot lamp indicates whether thermostat is on or off. Power pilot lamp function is to show whether power is on or off. Lid covers the container and caster allows the paraffin wax bath container to be moved from one place to another.
Technique of Application of Paraffin wax bath therapy .
Paraffin wax bath therapy is a form of thermotherapy used in rehabilitation and physical therapy to treat various conditions including arthritis, joint stiffness, and muscle pain. The technique of applying paraffin wax bath therapy involves several steps:
1. Prepare the Paraffin Wax .
- Use a specialized paraffin wax bath unit. The wax is typically sold in blocks or beads.
- Place the required amount of paraffin wax into the unit.
2. Melting the Wax .
- Turn on the paraffin wax bath unit to begin the melting process.
- Allow the wax to melt thoroughly until it reaches a liquid state.
3. Temperature Check:
- Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the melted wax. The ideal temperature for paraffin wax therapy is usually between 113°F to 129°F (45°C to 54°C).
- Ensure the temperature is comfortable and safe for the individual receiving the treatment. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
4. Clean and Prep the Skin .
- The area to be treated (e.g., hands, feet, or other joints) should be clean and dry.
- Remove any jewelry from the body part to be immersed in the wax.
5. Skin Protection .
- Apply a thin layer of mineral oil or a specialized pre-wax solution to the skin in the treatment area. This helps protect the skin and facilitates easy removal of the wax later. Nerve Conduction Velocity
6. Dipping Technique .
- Dip the body part into the liquid wax several times, allowing the wax to build up and form a thick coating.
- Each dip should be done quickly to avoid excessive heat and to build up an even layer of wax.
7. Wrap or Cover .
- After building up an adequate layer of wax, the treated area is often wrapped in plastic or a towel to retain heat.
- This wrapping enhances the warming effect and promotes better penetration of heat into the tissues.
8. Wait for the Wax to Set .
- Allow the wax to cool and set for about 20-30 minutes. During this time, the paraffin wax solidifies, trapping heat against the skin.
9. Wax Removal .
- Carefully peel off the wax layer once it has solidified. This can be done in one piece or in sections, depending on the application and the treated area.
- Return the used wax to the unit for reuse.
10. Follow-up .
- After removing the wax, the skin may feel soft and the treated area may experience increased blood flow.
- Some therapists may follow up with additional therapeutic exercises or activities. Short Wave Diathermy
Methods of Application of Paraffin wax bath therapy .
1. Dip Method .
Dip method provides mild heating. The patient should wash and dry the part to be treated. The therapist instructs the patient to dip the body part in the bath and then remove it until the paraffin solidifies, and a thin layer of adherent solid paraffin is formed which covers the skin. Dipping is repeated until a thick coat is formed. In other words, at least 8 to 12 times until the wax has formed a thick glove over the part.
Once the thick glove of wax is formed, the treated area should be wrapped first in plastic and then wrapped over with a towel. If edema is a concern, then the area may be elevated. The effective duration of this treatment is 10 to 15 minutes. At the end of this treatment, the glove of solid wax is peeled off or removed by slipping a finger beneath the glove and sliding the wax off and into the plastic sack, which covered it during the treatment. The sack is then discarded or the wax is emptied into the bath unit. Low frequency Currents
2. Immersion Method .
Immersion method of application provides somewhat vigorous heating. The body part to be treated is dipped three to four times to form a thin coat and then left immersed in paraffin for 20 to 30minutes. A thin glove of solid paraffin wax formed, slows the heat conduction.
Use of the immersion method requires cooperation and tolerance by the patient in a dependent position. Care should be taken to ensure that the patient is in a comfortable position during the treatment. With the immersion method, the temperature elevation of the body tissue is two degree Celsius higher than the dipping method. Short Wave Diathermy
3. Brush Method .
Brush method is a less commonly used method of paraffin wax application. In this method, 8 to 10 coats of wax are applied to the area with a paint brush using even and rapid strokes. The area is then wrapped with towel for 10 to 20 minutes and after this time paraffin wax is removed and discarded.
4. Bandage Method .
In this method, bandage of a suitable size and mesh is soaked in hot wax and then it is wrapped around the limb. Additional wax then can be poured or brushed over the bandage.
Effects and Uses of Paraffin wax bath therapy .
Paraffin wax bath therapy provides superficial heating to the tissues. It increases the local circulation to the area, increases the pliability of the skin, and reduces stiffness and thus pain. Low frequency Currents
Indications of Paraffin wax bath therapy .
Paraffin wax therapy is used for the treatment of:
- Rheumatoid arthritis .
- Osteoarthritis .
- Joint stiffness, adhesions .
- Post immobilization stiffness, scars on the skin .
- Strains .
- Sprains .
- Post-fracture .
- Post-ligament injury .
- Fibromyalgia .
- Immobilization .
- Inflammation .
Contraindications of Paraffin wax bath therapy.
Paraffin wax bath therapy should not be used in the cases of:
- Open wounds .
- Skin rashes .
- Allergic conditions .
- Impaired skin sensation .
- Defective arterial supply .
- Sensory loss .
- Peripheral Vascular disease .
- Neoplasms .
- Anesthetic areas .
- Impaired circulation .
- Acute injuries .
Physiological Effect of Paraffin Wax Bath therapy .
1. Heat Therapy .
The primary effect of paraffin wax bath therapy is the application of heat to the treated area. The warm wax helps to increase blood flow, promoting vasodilation (expansion of blood vessels) and enhancing circulation. Improved blood circulation contributes to the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
2. Pain Relief .
The heat from the paraffin wax has analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. It can help alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, muscle strains, joint stiffness, and other musculoskeletal issues. The warmth also helps in relaxing muscles and reducing muscle spasms.
3. Muscle Relaxation .
The heat induces muscle relaxation by decreasing muscle tension and stiffness. This effect is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions involving tight muscles or those recovering from injuries.
4. Increased Range of Motion .
Paraffin wax bath therapy can enhance joint flexibility and increase the range of motion. The heat softens the surrounding tissues, making them more pliable and improving joint mobility.
5. Improved Skin Condition .
The wax forms a coating on the skin, which not only helps retain heat but also has a moisturizing effect. The therapy can be beneficial for individuals with dry or rough skin, providing hydration and improving skin texture.
6. Reduced Joint Stiffness .
The warmth of the paraffin wax can help reduce joint stiffness, making it easier for individuals with conditions like osteoarthritis to move their joints more comfortably.
7. Promotion of Relaxation .
The overall warmth and soothing nature of paraffin wax bath therapy contribute to a sense of relaxation and well-being. This relaxation can help reduce stress and tension in the treated area.
Therapeutic Effect of Paraffin Wax Bath therapy .
1. Pain Relief .
The warmth of the melted paraffin wax provides pain relief by increasing blood flow to the treated area, relaxing muscles, and reducing joint stiffness. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, joint inflammation, or musculoskeletal pain.
2. Muscle Relaxation .
The heat from the paraffin wax helps relax muscles, promoting a soothing effect. This can be beneficial for relieving muscle spasms and tension.
3. Improved Blood Circulation .
The application of warm paraffin wax increases blood flow to the skin and underlying tissues. Improved circulation enhances oxygen and nutrient delivery to the cells, promoting tissue healing and reducing inflammation.
4. Enhanced Joint Range of Motion .
Paraffin wax bath therapy can help improve joint flexibility and range of motion. The heat softens the surrounding tissues, making them more pliable and allowing for easier movement of the joints.
5. Skin Conditioning .
The wax creates a coating on the skin that helps retain moisture, promoting skin softness and reducing dryness. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions such as eczema or dry, cracked skin.
6. Reduction of Joint Stiffness .
The heat from the paraffin wax can alleviate joint stiffness, making it an effective treatment for conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
7. Facilitation of Wound Healing .
Paraffin wax bath therapy can be used to promote wound healing in certain cases. The increased blood flow to the affected area can aid in the repair of damaged tissues.
8. Relaxation and Stress Reduction .
The warm sensation of the paraffin wax can induce a sense of relaxation, contributing to stress reduction and overall well-being.
Maintenance of Paraffin Wax Bath Unit .
Sterile the paraffin wax bath by heating it to 212° Fahrenheit. For reuse, sterilization should be done frequently. Drain the melted paraffin wax, filter it out and replace it back for reuse. Change the wax at least once in 6 months.
Thanks for Visiting us .
