Hot Foot Bath

Please read Important Points to be Observed with all Treatments before performing this treatment.
Contraindications and Cautions

Obstructive circulatory disturbances
Diabetes
Peripheral vascular diseases
Any condition where circulation in feet and legs is poor (like extreme vascular disease of feet and legs) or where there is a loss of sensation (feeling) in feet or legs.

Definition
A local immersion bath covering the feet and ankles at temperatures ranging from 39-44°C / 103-110°F.
Equipment

Foot tub or container large enough and deep enough; 20 litre / 5 gallon can or dish pan may be used but water should be at least 10 cm / 4" deep. The deeper the water, the greater the heating effect.
Thermometer, if available; if not, test water with elbow; temperature 39° - 43°C / 103-110°F.
Sheet or bath blanket
Bath towel, cold compress if needed
Material for protection of bed (rubber sheet or plastic)
Pitcher or dipper to add hot water
Equipment for Fomentations and Cold Mitten Friction

Procedure
Important Considerations

Do not use hot foot bath in peripheral vascular disease unless specifically ordered by the physician; and, if used, maximum temperature is usually 39°C / 110°F.
When adding hot water, be careful not to burn the patient

Preparation for Treatment

Explain procedure to patient
Have room warm and free from drafts
Assemble materials
Protect bedding
Have the patient drink warm or hot lemonade (lemon juice) before the bath (for added heat)
Patient may be lying or sitting, properly draped, i.e. covered with a sheet then a blanket, mitred at neck, with a towel around the neck.

Treatment

Have water temperature 39° - 43°C / 103-110°F. and deep enough to cover a couple of inches above ankles.
Assist the patient to place his feet in the tub; place your hand under his feet and into the water first to make sure the water is not too hot.
Be sure the drape covers the tub
Add hot water from time to time to increase the temperature gradually to 43°C / 110°F, of the hot foot bath; make sure you remove the feet first before adding the hot water or place one of your hands in the water between where you are pouring the water in and the patient's feet. Stir gently with your hand.
Continue 10 - 20 minutes; check reaction for perspiration
Use Cold Compress to head when sweating begins; renew often at least every 2 minutes and give water through a straw if sweating is continuing.
Use the lying treatment with Fomentations
Treat until sweating freely for 5 minutes - add hot water frequently
When finished with treatment, pour cold or iced water over feet; remove from tub and rub and dry thoroughly
Finished with Cold Mitten Friction or other quick cold treatment

Completion of Treatment