The effects of cold pack application to the forehead and the thoracic spine on blood perfusion to the upper limb

Item

Title
The effects of cold pack application to the forehead and the thoracic spine on blood perfusion to the upper limb
Author(s)
Conisbee Claire Louise
Abstract
Introduction: This study compared two methods of cold pack application. One was derived from a highly researched area of human physiology (the cold face test), whilst the other was from the less researched area of naturopathic hydrotherapy.
Method: 16 asymptomatic male student subjects were chosen for this study after being assessed for suitability. In the first protocol an ambient temperature pack (23°C) was applied to the forehead for 4 min, this was followed by a cold pack (4°C) for a further 4 min. In the second protocol the same procedure was carried out to the thoracic spine (T2-8). During both protocols the blood perfusion units were measured using a microflow DSP digital laser perfusion monitor.
Results: Ambient and cold packs in both protocols caused a significant reduction in blood flow (P<0.0001). No significant differences were seen between the ambient and cold packs in both areas. No significant differences were seen between the two cold pack applications.
Conclusion: The significant reduction in blood flow during cold application to the forehead is consistent with the cold face test. The significant reduction in blood flow during cold application to the thoracic spine is consistent with anecdotal evidence given by authors in naturopathic hydrotherapy.
Date Accepted
0
Date Submitted
1.1.1970 00:00:00
Type
osteo_thesis
Language
English
Submitted by:
62
Pub-Identifier
13662
Inst-Identifier
1076
Recommended
0
Item sets
Thesis

Conisbee Claire Louise, “The effects of cold pack application to the forehead and the thoracic spine on blood perfusion to the upper limb”, Osteopathic Research Web, accessed March 29, 2024, https://www.osteopathic-research.com/s/orw/item/1095