Which temperature range is used for the warm water phase in a contrast bath protocol?

• A. 20–25°C
• B. 38–44°C
• C. 10–15°C
• D. 50–60°C

Answer: (B)

Warm water in a contrast bath is used to raise tissue temperature and promote vasodilation, which increases blood flow, reduces stiffness, and helps tissue respond to movement. The comfortable, safe range for this warm phase is about 38–44°C. This level is warm enough to produce these effects without risking burns or overheating. Lower ranges like 20–25°C don’t reliably cause vasodilation, while colder ranges around 10–15°C trigger vasoconstriction, opposite to what the warm phase aims to achieve. Temperatures in the 50–60°C range are too hot and unsafe for immersion. So, 38–44°C is the right choice because it effectively promotes warmth and circulation while staying within a safe, tolerable temperature for most people.