Among the many benefits of paraffin, perhaps the most interesting is its use in physiotherapy. The application of paraffin on stiff or painful body parts can increase blood flow in the area and relax muscles.

Paraffin therapy works thanks to the flexibility of the material and its ability to retain heat. At the same time, the moisture that forms on the skin hydrates and nourishes its deeper layers.

Why is paraffin used in rehabilitation?

Paraffin is a highly malleable material with a relatively low melting point and a high thermal conductivity. Once melted, paraffin can transmit heat by conduction and generate a pleasant sensation in patients during application.

In order to melt paraffin at a temperature well tolerated by the skin, it is usually combined with mineral oil in a ratio of 1 part paraffin to 6 or 7 parts oil.

How does paraffin therapy work?

Applying moist heat to sore or stiff areas helps to relieve chronic pain, relax muscles, activate circulation, and improve the appearance of the skin.

Application methods

There are three main ways to use paraffin in rehabilitation:  

• Immersion. Immersing the body part in liquid paraffin until it forms a film on it.
• Pouring. Soaking the area with paraffin and wrapping it to let the patient rest.
• Bandaging. Applying a bandage previously soaked in paraffin.  .

The choice of method will always remain in the hands of the health professional giving the treatment, who will know how to choose the most suitable application for each patient’s needs.