A patient is 24 hours post-operative from a total knee replacement and also reports a flare-up of chronic lower back pain. Which combination of thermal modalities is indicated?

A patient is 24 hours post-operative from a

Multiple choice — select the best answer

AContinuous cold therapy applied to both locations
BAlternating heat and cold on the surgical site
CIce packs to the knee; heating pad to the back
DHeating pad to the knee; ice packs to the back
EWarm moist compresses applied to both locations

✓ Correct answer: C. Ice packs to the knee; heating pad to the back Cold therapy reduces inflammation and bleeding in acute surgical sites (first 48–72 hours). Heat promotes blood flow and relaxation for chronic muscle tension. Applying heat to fresh wounds increases bleeding risk, while ice is less effective than heat for chronic tension.

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A patient is 24 hours post-operative from a total knee replacement and also reports a flare-up of chronic lower back pain. Which combination of thermal modalities is indicated?

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