PARAFFIN WAX

Indication

- Chronic Pain (distal extremities)
- Edema

"To reduce pain and promote circulation"

Contraindication and precaution

1. recent injuries
2. pregnant or trying to be
3. bruises or bleeding over the area
4. jewelries, accessories, or metals
5. Any blood clots

Expected sensation

Mild warmth

Application

- Paraffin is mixed with mineral oil in a 6:1 or 7:1
- If available, use insulating mitts on hands or feet
- Two technique: Dip-wrap and Dip-immersion

Application Technique - DIP WRAP

1. Sanitize area and dry it
2. w/ pt fingers apart, dip and let it harden
3. Repeat 5-10times (6-10 dips in total)
4. Wrap in wax paper
5. Wrap in towel; use insulating mitts if available
6. Leave it 10 - 15 mins or until it cools

Application Technique - DIP IMMERSION

1. Sanitize pt hand and dry it
2. With pt fingers apart. dip and remove
3. Wait 5 - 15 secs(initial dip) until it hardens
4. Redip hand
5. Hand remains in paraffin for 20mins or until it cools

Note: cannot be used if severe edema; because it is stationary, can aggregate the cond

PARAMETERS

- between 45 - 50 deg Celsius

Treatment time

Dip wrap: 10-15 mins after wrapping in wax paper and towel (or mitts)
Dip immersion: 20 mins after initial dip