Advancing Recovery: The Science Behind Thermal and Cryotherapy in Healthcare

Healthcare professionals rely on both cryotherapy (cold therapy) and thermal therapy (heat therapy) to manage pain, control inflammation, and promote faster recovery. While both methods support healing, they work through different physiological mechanisms. Knowing when to apply each approach helps patients recover faster and achieve better therapeutic outcomes.

Sammons Preston® now offers a complete range of instant and reusable hot & cold therapy solutions designed to make recovery safer, faster, and more convenient in any setting – from rehabilitation to emergency room and beyond.

Cryotherapy: Cooling for Control

Cryotherapy uses cold to reduce inflammation, swelling, and metabolic activity after an injury. By narrowing blood vessels and slowing nerve conduction, it limits tissue damage and helps relieve pain during the acute phase of recovery.  

Common Cryotherapy Methods

• Instant Cold Packs: Provide immediate cooling without refrigeration, ideal for quick treatment needs and emergency departments. 

• Ice Bags: A reusable, moldable option that conforms to different body areas for sustained cooling when filled with ice, commonly used in hospitals, surgery centers and sports medicine facilities. The new clamp closure simplifies filling and helps prevent leaks. 

Clinical Tip: Cold therapy is most effective within the first 48 hours after injury to manage swelling, sprains, or bruising. 

Thermal Therapy: Warming for Healing 

Thermal therapy applies controlled heat to increase circulation, flexibility, and muscle relaxation, making it ideal for treating chronic pain, stiffness, or muscle tightness. Heat expands blood vessels and promotes oxygen flow to tissues, supporting long-term recovery and comfort. 

Common Thermal Therapy Methods 

• Instant Hot Packs: Provide soothing warmth on demand with no need for a microwave or heating unit. 

• Reusable Hot/Cold Combo Packs: Offer dual functionality for both heat and cold therapy, allowing flexibility across treatment stages. 

Clinical Tip: Apply heat before stretching or activity to relax tight muscles, then use cold after the stretching/activity to minimize inflammation. 

Contrast Therapy: The Best of Both Worlds 

Contrast therapy alternates heat and cold to stimulate circulation while controlling inflammation. This method helps flush out metabolic waste, improve blood flow, and enhance tissue repair. Clinicians often use it during the transition from acute to subacute phases of recovery. 

See It in Action 

Explore quick videos covering proper activation, application, and use for Sammons Preston® hot & cold packs. Use these resources as a guide or share them with patients to promote safe, effective treatment. 

Why Choose Sammons Preston® Hot & Cold Therapy 

Every Sammons Preston® product is clinically engineered for safety, flexibility, and consistent performance. From instant activation to reusable designs, these therapy essentials allow clinicians to deliver precise temperature control and effective relief for every patient.

Advance Recovery. Reduce Pain. Restore Performance. 

Explore the Complete Sammons Preston® Hot & Cold Therapy Line »