HYDROCOLLATOR PACK

Typical Number in Hospital:

Cost Bands:

References: 4,10

Amongst the large variety of methods of applying heat as a treatment for pain, muscle spasm, stiffness or inflammation, one method includes the application of hot packs against the skin, causing heating to a depth of 5 mm or so. Blood flow secondary to heat itself may carry energy to deeper structures. The hydrocollator pack is a canvas bag containing a silicone gel paste which absorbs an amount of water equal to ten times its weight. These are placed in water at 180[d]F and following absorption they can be used for 20 minutes. Special heating baths are also available.