Abstract
For this study, we compared autonomic nerve activity changes and the pleasure-displeasure sensation during hot compresses to the posterior region of the neck (PRN) using two temperatures (40 and 60 degrees centigrade). In 12 postmenopausal women the PRN was warmed for 10 minutes. Each subject, experienced: 1) PRN warming with a hot towel of 60 degrees centigrade, 2) PRN warming with a heat and steam generating sheet of 40 degrees centigrade, and 3) no warming (control). We measured skin temperature (PRN, dorsalis pedis and palm), deep temperature (sole and forehead), heart rate variability (HRV) and skin conductance level (SCL). Subjects responded to the pleasure-displeasure scale and the degree of sleepiness scale.
The PRN skin temperature safely increased to a maximum of 41 degrees centigrade with the 40 and the 60 degree centigrade hot compresses. Both methods brought pleasurable drowsiness and maintained the foot temperature. Moreover, the 40 degree centigrade hot compress maintained SCL significantly less than the control. It was suggested that the 40 degree centigrade hot compresses relieved psychosomatic stress.
