64 PRINCIPLES OF TETEBINARY SUEGEET 



When is the application of cold contraindicated in the treai- 

 TTient of inflammation ? 

 It is only of use in the earlier stages of acute inflamma- 

 tion. It should not be emialoyed in infectious states, as it 

 interferes with the process of healing by inhibiting tha 

 exudative process more or less, the latter being a vital factor 

 in the process of repair. It should not be used in the treat- 

 ment of serious bruises, as the vitality of the parts is already ^ 

 lowered by the contusion, and thus sloughing would be > 

 encouraged by the application of cold. In other words, there 

 are few inflammatory processes which could be treated suc- 

 cessfully by the application of cold after the inflammatory 

 processes once existed 36 to 48 hours. 



How does the action of heat influence the inftammatorg 

 process. 

 Temperatures ranging from 78 to 133 deg. F. dilate the 

 blood vessels, thus increasing the blood-flow and increasing 

 nutrition of the parts. As a direct result of this, absorptioiHi ;i| 

 of the exudation is encouraged. Heat softens and renders 

 less tense the inflamed tissues ; consequently, pain is more or 

 less relieved. 



Describe the application of heat in the treatment of inflo/m- 

 mation. 



1. By immersion. The part is immersed in warm water, 

 a new supply being added from time to time to keep up tl» 

 desired temperature. 



2. Cataplasms. Linseed meal, bran, etc., is mixed ■<l''itli 

 warm water containing some antiseptic agent, as one-half per 

 cent, carbolic acid, etc.; or, better, cotton waste (such as 

 is used to wipe machinery) is soaked with a warm antiseptiff 

 solution and applied to the inflamed part. These have to 



