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is also beneficial to take hot beverages, and use blanket coverings to produce sweating. Tonic treatments, such as the cold mitten friction should finish the therapy session to prevent recongestion. Congestive headaches find relief with the hot foot bath, applying cold compresses or ice bags to the head and neck. Acute inflammatory diseases in the pelvic organs requires most vigorous derivation. A hot hip and leg pack, combined with ice bags to the bladder (suprapubic) area is often effective. If preceded by a hot vaginal irrigation, the relief of pain usually comes within ten minutes. This treatment should likewise be finished with a cold mitten friction. TECHNIQUES OF LOCAL HEATING PROCEDURES Fomentations A fomentation consists of local application using moist heat to the body’ s surface. The fomentation cloth is typically made of blanket material— 50% wool to retain heat, and 50% cotton to retain moisture. The combination gives greater durability. A fomentation tank can be constructed to employ boiling water or steam. A kettle of boiling water, such as that used for home canning is quite sufficient. At least four fomentation cloths should be assembled, with a few Turkish (terry cloth) towels. A basin for ice water and the foot tub completes the setup.
Preparation for Home Treatments
During the procedure, keep the room warm and free of drafts to prevent chilling. Avoid bright lights shining in the patient’ s eyes. Protect the furniture, bedding, and carpets from moisture, especially when giving a room treatment. Do not be very talkative. Avoid discussing the patient’ s ailment, and keep all conversation positive, uplifting, and cheerful. Make every move count for something, conserving energy and economizing on time. First, start the water boiling. Fold a fomentation cloth in about three thicknesses. Grasp the ends and partially twist the cloth. Then submerge all