From the Research
Chest fomentations in hydrotherapy work primarily through the application of moist heat to the thoracic region, triggering several beneficial physiological responses, including local vasodilation, increased blood circulation, and immune system stimulation, as supported by the most recent study on hydrotherapy effects 1. The mechanism of chest fomentations in hydrotherapy involves the application of hot, moist towels or packs to the skin, typically at a temperature of 100-110°F. This application triggers local vasodilation of blood vessels in the chest area, increasing blood circulation to the lungs and bronchial tissues, which helps mobilize congestion and reduce inflammation in respiratory passages.
- The heat penetrates deeper tissues, relaxing chest muscles and reducing spasm of bronchial smooth muscle, which eases breathing difficulty.
- Additionally, the moist heat stimulates the immune system by increasing white blood cell activity in the affected area, enhancing the body's ability to fight respiratory infections.
- The application also triggers reflex responses that can decrease mucus viscosity, making it easier to expectorate. Some studies have investigated the effects of hydrotherapy on various health conditions, including hypertension 1 and acute bronchiolitis 2. However, the most relevant study to the question of chest fomentations in hydrotherapy is the one that discusses the effects of hydrotherapy on blood pressure and its potential to improve blood circulation 1. For maximum effectiveness, chest fomentations should be applied for 15-20 minutes, with the pack being refreshed as it cools. A thin cloth should separate the hot application from the skin to prevent burns, and the treatment area should be dried thoroughly afterward. This therapy is particularly effective for conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, and chest congestion because it combines the therapeutic benefits of heat with increased moisture to the respiratory system, as demonstrated by a study on the reduction of pneumonia following inhalation injury using chest physical therapy 3.