Alternate Hot and Cold Shower

SYN: Contrast Shower

HYD

from Hydrothermic Remedies...

Water: Begin at 38°C / 100°F, tolerance at 43°C / 110°F, Neutral at 34-36°C / 94-97°F

Effects:

Definition

A shower that uses abrupt changes from hot to cold.

Physiologic Effects

  1. Vigorous tonic
  2. Superficial hyperemia
  3. Stimulates metabolism

Indications

  1. As a refresher after a local or general applications of heat.
  2. Debility from sedentary lifestyle.
  3. To relieve Fatigue

Contraindications

  1. Heart Diseases
  2. Kidney Failure
  3. Severe Arteriosclerosis
  4. Hyperthyroidism or exophthalmic goiter/goitre
  5. Nervous System Irritability
  6. Hypertension
  7. Hot spray should not be directed over the area of Varicose Veins
  8. Neuritis
  9. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Equipment

  1. Stool - non-rust
  2. Shower cap

Procedure

Important Considerations

  • Rubber mat on floor a shower so patient doesn't slip.

Preparation for Treatment

  • Turn on shower and adjust to proper temperature.
  • Make sure patient's feet are warm before entering shower.
  • Use shower cap if patient wishes.
  • Have stool on hand in case patient becomes faint.
  • Have patient get into shower.

Treatment

  • Begin at 38 °C / 100°F and quickly increase temperature to 43 - 44 °C / 110°F (or tolerance).
  • Continue at this point for 1 minute.
  • Turn off hot tap to quickly lower temperature to faucet for 30 seconds
  • Reverse again to hot for about 1 minute and followed by cold for 30 seconds for two more times (total of three hot changes)
  • Gradually lower to neutral (36°C / 94-97°F) for 1½ minutes.
  • Gradually lower the temperature to faucet cold, providing, however, that the temperature should not be lowered if there is the slightest feeling of chilliness.

Completion of Treatment

  • Dry vigorously with friction.
  • Patient may rest.
  • Get dressed.

GKA

from Dr GK Abbott's Prescriptions...

  • Vigorous Tonic and Stimulant "It should not be ventured upon without considerable preliminary training by milder measures."
  • Patient must first be accustomed to Revulsive Shower
  • Changes should be abrupt
  • Begin 41-43°C raising quickly to limit of tolerance for 1min
  • Turn mixer quickly to cold for 15-30sec
  • Back quickly to hot for 3 complete changes
  • Finish with cold and dry well.