Fluidotherapy

Dr. Foram Bhut

Fluidotherapy is a dry heating agent that transfers heat by
convection, that provide mechanical as well as thermal stimuli
to produce the therapeutic effect.
It consists of a cabinet containing finely ground cellulose
particles (a powder) made from corn cob. Heated air is made to
be circulated through the Particles, so that the particles move
like a liquid. The patients part if put inside the cabinet starts to
float as if floating inside water, and get heated.
As the system has very low viscosity, it allows exercises to be
performed inside the cabinet, like the exercises performed
inside warm water ( but the part does not get wet). The
temperature of the unit is maintained between 38 - 45c or
little higher. The treatment is usually given for 15 - 20
minutes.
The patient should be prepared in the same way like hot pack
application, the part is undressed, jewelry, etc. removed and
skin sensation for heat and cold checked, etc.
If there is any open wound on the part to be treated, it should
be covered with a plastic sheet.
The Part to be treated is extended through the Portal of the
unit and the sleeve should be closed to prevent the particles
from coming out. The required temperature is maintained
and the patient is told to exercise the part inside the cabinet.
After the treatment is over the part is removed from the
cabinet and the skin is examined. A mild erythema is normal.
Advantage of fluidotherapy

Active movement is possible along with the heat

therapy.
The part treated is subjected to very minimal Pressure.
Easy to apply.
Disadvantages of fluidotherapy

Equipment is costly.
May keep the limb in a dependent position, there by
aggravating edema.
May cause over heating and burn of the tissuse.
The particles may spill on to a smooth floor
enhancing , slipperiness, which may result in a fall.