Definition:
A local immersion bath covering the feet, ankles and legs.

Effects:

1. Relieves head, chest-and pelvic congestion by the drawing of blood from those areas to the legs and feet.
2. Stops nosebleed.
3. Relieves pain and spasms of the feet and legs.
4. Induces sweating in case of fever—lowers body temperature.
5. Relieves menstrual cramps by relaxing the uterine spasm.
6. Relieves headache.
7. Relaxes the whole day.

Things Needed:

1. One kerosene can or plastic pail.
2. One small basin.
3. One large “kaserola” or kettle of boiling water.
4. Chair or stool.
5. Compress cloth or face towel.
6. Pitcher or dipper (“tabo”).
7. Old newspaper, if done in bed.
8. Bath towel.
9. One blanket.

Procedure:

1. Close windows and doors. If done in the bathroom, the patient should be seated on a chair. If the patient is too weak to sit, patient may lie down and be treated in bed.
2. Remove clothing of patient, and drape with blanket.
3. Assist patient’s feet into the pail or basin of water. Water is ankle deep to start with. Temperature should be as hot as can be tolerated.
4. Apply cold compress to the forehead or on the nape if compress is small.
5. Add hot water. In adding hot water to the foot tub, push the patient’s feet to one side and place your hand between the feet and the stream of water. Increase the water tempera ture to patient’s heat tolerance.
6. Continue adding hot water for 20-30 minutes, renewing cold compress every 2-3 minutes. Don’t let the water cool off.
7. At the end of the treatment lift feet from the water and pour cold water over them.
8. Give hot and cold shower if patient is strong. Give warm sponge bath if done in bed.
9. Dry patient and keep him comfortable. Let patient rest till he stops perspiring.