HOT PACKS/

HYDRO COLLATOR
PACKS
 WHAT ARE HOT PACKS?
• Hot packs are packs which are
immersed in an apparatus called
HYDROCOLLATOR UNIT
• Also called as Hydro-collator packs
• These packs have fabric envelope
containing silica gel
• The main property of gel is its
capability to absorb many times its
own volume of water and when
heated, to give moist heat for 30-40
minutes
• These packs are available in variours
sizes and shapes
• These packs last for 6 months
• A special collar pattern packs are
available for neck
• The packs are wrapped in
–Turkish towels
 HYDRO-COLLATOR UNIT
• The hydro-collator unit is a stainless
steel tank in which packs are heated
• The units contain a wire rack which acts
as divider for the packs and prevents
contact of packs with the bottom of the
tank
• The heater is thermostatically
contrlled and maintains water at
temperate between 76-80 degree
celcius
• It takes 2 hours for pack to become
fully heated
• It can be left on continuously as long
as there is enough water in the tank
• Hydro-collator packs are used to give
gentle moist heat to superficial regions of
the body
• The part treated must be able to tolerate
the pressure of the pack (approximately
500-800 grams) and to tolerate a 7-10
degree rise in temperature
• The pack retains its heat for 30 mins but
after 10 mins the patient may regard the
pack as cool and comfortable
• Average rise in region under pack is 5
degree C
METHODS OF APPLICATION
• Positioning and educating patient
• Testing of treatment part
• Preparation of apparatus
 PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
• Rise in temperature
• Effect on muscular spasm
• Hemodynamic effect
• Metabolic effect
• Tissue extensibility
• Neuromuscular effect
 Indications
• Pain
• Muscle spasm
• Inflammation
• Oedema
• Adhesions
 Contra-indications
• Impaired skin sensation
• Circulatory dysfunction
• Analgesic drugs
• Infections or open wound
• Cancer or tuberculosis
 Dangers and Pre cautions

• Burns
• Dehydration
• Do not let patient to come in direct
contact with hot pack
 Home managment
• Hot water bags
• Gel packs
• Mud packs/Pelloids
• Woolen material cloth
• Sand bags
Thank you