Paraffin Wax Bath Therapy

Paraffin wax bath therapy is a pain management technique used by physiotherapist to reduce the intensity of pain, improve range of motion and decrease spasticity in certain conditions, especially in the hands and feet. It involves immersing the affected body part into a bath of molten paraffin wax.

 

Method of Application

• Immersion method
• Brush method
• Towel method
• Pouring method

 

Research Based Evidence

• Improvements are seen in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Paraffin wax acts as a localized source of heat. It is incorporated with`therapeutic exercises, especially to treat RA wrist and hand pain. Further use of paraffin wax is also said to be ineffective in some patients.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is also treated with paraffin wax therapy along with use of splint in early stages. It increase the rate of recovery in functional and electrophysiological parameters.
• Post Burn Contractures is treated with paraffin wax as it improves range of motion. The physiotherapist can combine it with stretching exercises for greater benefit.
• Joint mobilization is improved with wax therapy. it can be used to improve symptoms and quality of life of patients according to their needs.

 

Clinical Effects of Paraffin Wax Bath

• increasing blood flow, relaxing muscles, and reducing joint stiffness in conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or joint-related injuries.
• improved circulation
• enhance joint mobility and increase flexibility, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis or conditions causing joint stiffness.
• reduce inflammation in affected areas by promoting lymphatic drainage and soothing inflamed tissues.
• aid in the healing of wounds and to soften scar tissue, promoting tissue elasticity and reducing stiffness.

Indications

• Tenosynovitis
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Raynaud's Disease
• Muscle Strains and Sprains
• Joint stiffness
• Leprosy
• Scleroderma
• Dupuytren's contracture
• Sudeck's atrophy
• Soft tissue contractures

Contraindications

• Infective Conditions
• Deep Vein Thrombosis
• Open Wounds 
• Peripheral Neuropathy
• Peripheral vascular disease
• fracture
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Loss of Temperature Sensation
• Inflammatory Conditions
• Malignancy