From the Research
Deep heat therapy is not absolutely contraindicated for patients with heart problems, but its use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a cardiologist. Patients with cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, severe hypertension, or arrhythmias should use deep heat treatments like ultrasound therapy, diathermy, or hot packs applied to large body areas with caution, as heat causes vasodilation, which increases blood flow and can place additional strain on an already compromised cardiovascular system 1. This increased circulatory demand may exacerbate cardiac symptoms or potentially trigger cardiac events in vulnerable individuals. However, recent studies have shown that heat therapy can have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including improved ejection fraction, flow-mediated dilation, and reduced blood pressure 1, 2. If a patient with heart problems requires pain relief, alternative approaches such as gentle superficial heat applied to small areas, physical therapy without heat elements, or appropriate medications prescribed by their cardiologist would be safer options. Any patient with heart disease should consult their cardiologist before using any form of heat therapy, even over-the-counter heat patches or heating pads.
Some key points to consider when using heat therapy in patients with heart problems include:
- The type and duration of heat therapy, as well as the individual's specific cardiovascular condition and overall health status, should be carefully considered 1.
- Heat therapy may be beneficial for patients with cardiovascular disease, but its effects on blood pressure and vascular function should be closely monitored 2.
- Patients with heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, severe hypertension, or arrhythmias should avoid deep heat treatments that may exacerbate their condition 3, 4, 5.
- Gentle superficial heat applied to small areas may be a safer alternative for patients with heart problems who require pain relief 1, 2.
It is essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of heat therapy in patients with heart problems and to consult with a cardiologist before initiating any heat therapy treatment 1, 2.