The basics of back pain
Most back pain is caused by muscle strain. When overused or injured, the large muscles in the lower back become inflamed and spasm, resulting in pain and stiffness. These spasms can produce sensations ranging from mild discomfort to excruciating pain that leaves sufferers unable to move. Often, the only treatment options are rest, pain medications, and the application of cold and heat. In some cases, alternating the two therapies provides the most pain relief.
The benefits of cold
Cold therapy relieves back pain by reducing the inflammation and swelling in the strained muscles, as well as slowing down the nerve impulses that are inducing the spasms. The application of cold is generally most useful during the first 48 hours following an injury that strains the back muscles. After this initial period, heat therapy is typically used to aid the healing process.
The benefits of heat
Heat is thought to promote the healing of back injuries by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle spasms. To be effective, the heat must penetrate deep into the tissues. This deep warmth relaxes the muscle fibers and calms the spasm reaction. It also helps the injured muscles to stretch, relieving stiffness.
Heat therapies work best when they are able to maintain the optimal temperature for the proper amount of time. In the case of minor back tension, short amounts of heat therapy such as 15 to 20 minutes may be sufficient. For more intense injuries, sessions of 30 minutes to 2 hours or more may be most beneficial.
The VitalWrap solution
The VitalWrap System can be used alone, or as part of a comprehensive pain-management program formulated by your health care provider. Both the standard and large wrap fabrics are designed to fit comfortably around the waist, and their ability to safely deliver extended thermal therapy using either cold or heat make them ideal for treating both acute and chronic back pain.
Covered by insurance
When properly prescribed by a physician or qualified healthcare provider, Medicare, workers’ compensation, and many private insurance plans will cover the VitalWrap System.
Talk with your doctor
Not all pain-relief treatments are appropriate for every patient. You should talk with your doctor to determine whether the VitalWrap System is appropriate for your needs.
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