In the acute phase of an ankle injury, whirlpool water temperature should be set to what range?

In the acute phase of an ankle injury, whirlpool water temperature should be set to what range?

• A. 45-55 degrees
• B. 55-65 degrees
• C. 65-75 degrees
• D. 75-85 degrees

Answer: (B)

In the acute inflammatory phase, the goal is to limit swelling and pain by reducing blood flow to the injured area. Using whirlpool therapy, a cool to mildly cool water temperature causes vasoconstriction and slows metabolic activity, which helps minimize edema and secondary tissue damage. The 55-65°F range provides enough cooling to achieve these effects while remaining comfortable for most patients. Warmer temperatures, like 65-75°F or 75-85°F, would promote vasodilation and increase blood flow, potentially worsening inflammation in the acute stage. Cooler options, such as 45-55°F, can be too extreme for many patients, risking discomfort or shivering that can counteract healing. Always monitor tolerance and skin sensation, and stop for numbness, excessive shivering, or color changes.

In the acute inflammatory phase, the goal is to limit swelling and pain by reducing blood flow to the injured area. Using whirlpool therapy, a cool to mildly cool water temperature causes vasoconstriction and slows metabolic activity, which helps minimize edema and secondary tissue damage. The 55-65°F range provides enough cooling to achieve these effects while remaining comfortable for most patients. Warmer temperatures, like 65-75°F or 75-85°F, would promote vasodilation and increase blood flow, potentially worsening inflammation in the acute stage. Cooler options, such as 45-55°F, can be too extreme for many patients, risking discomfort or shivering that can counteract healing. Always monitor tolerance and skin sensation, and stop for numbness, excessive shivering, or color changes.