Investigating the optimal duration of hot pack application at the shoulder joint

Abstract

Introduction: Moist Hot Pack (MHP) is a common electrotherapeutic modality used in Physiotherapy because of its cost, effectiveness and ease of use. This research was set to determine what is the optimal duration of application of a Moist Hot Pack at the shoulder joint. Methodology: This research adopted a quantitative approach and an experimental research design. 30 participants aged from 18 to 34 had a MHP applied on their right shoulder for 45 minutes. Temperature readings were recorded every 5 minutes using a Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer. Results: Different data was collected (age, gender, weight, height) including readings of the left shoulder, which acted as the control. A correlation between BMI and temperature (right shoulder) was observed. The findings of this research show that the optimal application time of a MHP on the shoulder of a healthy participant aged between 18 and 34 years old is between 5 and 20 minutes. Factors such as age and BMI should be considered. Conclusion: MHP should be applied at least 5 minutes to a maximum of 20 minutes on a healthy shoulder