Thermotherapy is best placed in rehab during which phase?

Thermotherapy is best placed in rehab during which phase?

• A. Initial acute phase
• B. Second phase to promote healing
• C. Final remodeling phase
• D. During immobilization only

Answer: (B)

Thermotherapy boosts tissue temperature to increase blood flow, metabolic activity, and collagen extensibility, which is most helpful after the initial inflammatory response has subsided. In the acute phase, applying heat can worsen swelling and inflammation, so heat therapy is not appropriate then. During the subacute (second) phase, heat supports healing by promoting circulation and tissue pliability, helping prepare tissues for ROM and progressive exercise. In immobilization, heat can increase swelling and hinder recovery, and in the remodeling phase the priority is functional training rather than heat-driven healing, though heat can be used cautiously to aid ROM. So the best fit is the second phase to promote healing.

Thermotherapy boosts tissue temperature to increase blood flow, metabolic activity, and collagen extensibility, which is most helpful after the initial inflammatory response has subsided. In the acute phase, applying heat can worsen swelling and inflammation, so heat therapy is not appropriate then. During the subacute (second) phase, heat supports healing by promoting circulation and tissue pliability, helping prepare tissues for ROM and progressive exercise. In immobilization, heat can increase swelling and hinder recovery, and in the remodeling phase the priority is functional training rather than heat-driven healing, though heat can be used cautiously to aid ROM. So the best fit is the second phase to promote healing.