What is a contraindication for applying heat therapy?

Heat therapy is a common modality used in physical therapy to promote relaxation, decrease muscle tension, and increase blood flow to an area. However, applying heat therapy is contraindicated in the presence of acute inflammation. When inflammation occurs, the affected tissues are often warm, swollen, and painful due to increased blood flow and immune response.

Applying heat in these situations can exacerbate the inflammation process by increasing blood flow even further, which may lead to greater swelling, increased pain, and prolonged healing time. Instead of heat, cold therapy is typically recommended in acute inflammatory situations, as it helps reduce swelling and numbs pain. This understanding is crucial for effective treatment planning in physical therapy.