How many towel layers should be applied between a hot pack and the treatment surface to ensure safety?

The appropriate number of towel layers to be applied between a hot pack and the treatment surface is typically in the range of 6-8 layers. This ensures adequate protection of the skin from the heat while allowing the therapeutic benefits of the hot pack to be effectively delivered to the underlying tissue.

Using this number of layers helps to minimize the risk of burns or skin irritation, which can occur with direct contact to a hot surface. The thickness of towels can vary, but generally, layering between 6 to 8 ensures sufficient insulation by providing enough cushion and temperature regulation.

When treating areas with muscle stiffness, pain, or discomfort, this careful attention to safety protocols is critical in physical therapy practice.