title: SKIN TEMPERATURE, COLOUR, and WARMTH FELT, IN HYDROCOLLATOR PACK APPLICATIONS TO THE LUMBAR REGION.
abstract: The application of hydrocollator packs carries an inherent danger of overheating, which must be avoided. While a variety of temperatures and coverings for the packs has been reported, it has been stated that a bright red skin colour may be indicative of skin damage. It has also been stated that a therapeutically desirable rise in skin temperature would be one to over 40°C during the treatment. In this study hydro-pack applications to the lumbar region of the back were assessed for onset of sensation after application, and at intervals thereafter for skin temperature, skin colour, and subjective sensation of warmth. The lack of co-relation found between these variables suggests that in clinical work an observation of the skin and also a subjective report, should be obtained at frequent intervals for at least the first nine minutes after application. The need for a rise in skin temperature above 40°C is questioned.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fyfe