Hydrocollator Explained

Hydrocollator
Uses:	Athletic trainers and physical therapists
Manufacturer:	Chattanooga Pharmaceutical Company

The hydrocollator, first introduced in 1947 by the Chattanooga Pharmaceutical Company,^[1] consists of a thermostatically controlled water bath for placing bentonite-filled cloth heating pads. When the pads are removed from the bath, they are placed in covers and placed on the patient. The device is primarily used by athletic trainers and physical therapists to help with pain relief, increased blood flow, muscle relaxation, and pre-treatment warm-up.^[2]

Research

The evidence behind the use of the hydrocollator is primarily concerned with achieving rapid heating of the tissue due to the more efficient transfer of energy through water as compared to air.^[3] There is some concern that hydrocollator treatment may be less effective with overweight or obese patients.^[4]

Heating methods are used commonly in patients with acute pain. It is recommended that heating pads be used at home on acute injuries for short term pain relief.^[5]

Notes and References

1. HYDROCOLLATOR steam packs accepted. JAMA. Feb 17, 1951. 145. 7. 487. 14794475. 7. 10.1001/jama.1951.02920250039010.
2. Web site: Manscill . Dallan . Understanding Hydrocollators . Rehab Therapy Supplies . 20 August 2024.
3. Petrofsky. J. Bains G . Prowse M . Gunda S . Berk L . Raju C . Ethiraju G . Vanarasa D . Madani P . Does skin moisture influence the blood flow response to local heat? A re-evaluation of the Pennes model. J Med Eng Technol. 2009. 33 . 7. 532–7. 19484652 . 10.1080/03091900902952683. 26102708.
4. Petrofsky. J. Bains G . Prowse M . Gunda S . Berk L . Raju C . Ethiraju G . Vanarasa D . Madani P. . Dry heat, moist heat and body fat: are heating modalities really effective in people who are overweight?. J Med Eng Technol. 2009. 33 . 5. 361–9. 19499453 . 10.1080/03091900802355508. 41666457.
5. Garra. Gregory. Heat or Cold Packs for Neck and Back Strain: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Efficacy. Academic Emergency Medicine. May 1, 2010. 17. 5. 484–489. 10.1111/j.1553-2712.2010.00735.x. 1069-6563. 20536800. May 2010. free.