Whirlpool bath

A therapeutic stainless steel, fiberglass, or plastic tank that uses turbines to agitate and aerate water into which the body, or part of it, is immersed. Tanks come in various sizes to accommodate treatment of different body parts (Hubbard and “low boy” tanks for full-body treatments or extremity tanks for arm or leg treatments). Water temperature selection varies depending on the condition of the patient and the desired therapeutic outcome. Cold whirlpools (ranging from 50°-79°F) are useful in treating acute inflammation. Tepid whirlpools (79°- 92°F) are used to facilitate early therapeutic exercise. Neutral temperatures (92°-96°F) are generally indicated for treatment of wounds or for patients who have circulatory, cardiac, or sensory disorders or neurological changes in muscle tone. Hot whirlpools (99°- 110°F) are beneficial in relieving pain, increasing soft tissue extensibility, and treating chronic conditions such as arthritis. In general, whirlpool temperatures should not exceed 110° to 115°F because of risk of burns.