Cold Towel Rub

The cold towel rub is results in the following positive changes in the body processes similar to those that result from a cold mitten friction: -

• Increases the ability of the body to fight off harmful bacteria by increasing phagocytosis and antibacterial activities.
• Improves the body's oxidation and elimination of bacterial toxins.
• Results in a general tonic for prevention or treatment of colds, low energy and endurance, poor resistance to infections, tobacco and drug withdrawal, alcoholism, poor circulation, anemia and low thyroid activity.
• cold towel rub will also increase muscular, glandular, and metabolic activities of internal organs.

How to Perform a Cold Towel Rub

• Dip a towel in cold water and wring lightly. Wrap the towel loosely around the arm lengthwise, the towel end being held firmly in the hand of the patient.
• Rub the arm briskly on the outside of the cold towel to achieve a reddening,. Percussions may be used to promote a more brisk reaction.
• Dry the arm with a coarse towel using a friction motion. Cover the arm with a sheet and proceed to the next extremity.
• Treat the back by spreading the cold towel over the back from the shoulders to below the buttocks. Rub as before; dry and cover.
• The chest and abdomen are treated last. Spread the cold towel from shoulders to groin, having the patient hold the upper corners during the rubbing strokes which are made from above downward