Occupational Therapy Methods 2 Practice Exam

Paraffin therapy delivers gentle, superficial heat to a small, localized area to ease stiffness and pain and improve movement. Because the wax is applied as a dip or wrap around a curved, compact region—typically the hand or fingers—it creates a uniform, circumferential layer of warmth. That focused heat raises tissue temperature, making soft tissues more pliable and joints easier to move, which is especially helpful for stiffness in small joints and for preparing the area for subsequent ROM exercises. The small surface area allows effective heating with less risk of burns, so it’s ideal for localized use rather than large body surfaces. It’s not meant for large areas or full-body application, and large-area heating isn’t practical or safe with paraffin wax.