One of the many possible devices for applying heat treatment for pain, spasm or inflammation is the whirlpoolbath. Generalized heating of the patient or a limb is provided by the water and the whirlpool action reduces the weight supported by the limb undergoing treatment. Such devices would not commonly be found in hospitals but more in special treatment centres.
Application of ice far too long (over 20 minutes) may result in reflex vasodilatation and hyperernia (the Hunting response), negating some of the positive effects of cold therapy. With cold whirlpool and ice immersion, generally 2 hours is recommended between treatments.