Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of hot compress application on back regions using the different temperatures, based on the influence on skin temperature and the circulatory system. Twenty healthy females participated in this study. Three methods were used; 55°C method applying a 55°C wet towel; 40°C+75°C method applying 75°C on top of the 40°C wet towel; and 40°C+65°C method applying 65°C on top of the 40°C wet towel. The hot compresses were applied to the back region for 10 minutes in the left supine position.
In all methods, the skin temperature below the blade bone from hot towel application to 15 minutes after removing the towel, and the skin temperature of the right dorsum pedis from 16 to 30 minutes after removing the towel, increased significantly compared with the rest condition.
In the 55°C method, in 3 subjects the systolic pressure decreased over 20 mmHg from the rest condition.
The 40°C+65°C method had the effects of retaining warmth similar to the 40°C+75°C method, and with little impact on the circulatory system.
