Ice and Heat
The application of both ice and heat is specifically for chronic pain management.
Our ice and heat packs are designed to be as small as possible. Both are intended to provide temperature for a short period of time. We designed this strategy to allow for more frequent use of ice and heat.
Once the ice pack is a slushy consistency it will last about 10 to 15 minutes.
The heat packs can be microwaved, depending on the wattage, from 20 to 40 seconds (20 seconds is typical for an 1100 watt unit). After heating the packs hold them in your hands for a few seconds to make sure they are not too hot.
For low back pain, use your support belt to hold the back in place. Place the ice pack in the middle of your back and place the heat packs about 3 inches on either side of the ice.
After about 15 minutes the ice should have melted so you can remove it and return it to the freezer. Remember, like microwaves, freezers vary so time how long it takes to refreeze your ice pack. You can keep the heat packs in place until your ready to repeat the ice and heat process.
For pain management in the neck region use a rolled towel or better yet, an 18" x 4" rice or bean bag to hold the ice and heat in place.
DO NOT HEAT THE BEAN BAG.
Remember the basic principles of pain management.
Breathing
Learning to breath properly provides a fundamental skill that assists with a number of pain management techicques.
You need to learn how to breath in the presence of pain and not hold your breath.
Proper breathing will help you affect your O2/CO2 concentration.
Proper breathing will give you a physiological response to help you better react to esclating pain.
Proper breathing creates a more profound relaxation.
Techniques
Diaphragmatic breathing
Heart rate variability
Hands & Feet relaxation
Breathing and Floating
Ice & heat
Pacing
Using support
Core development
Biofeedback
Neurofeedback