Calf wraps are lukewarm or cold compresses that are wrapped primarily around the calves to counteract fever and cramps. They promise a quick improvement in symptoms, but also carry some risks.
What are calf wraps?
Calf wraps are lukewarm or cold compresses that are wrapped primarily around the calves to counteract fever and cramps. Calf wraps are cloths that are warmed up and then wrapped around the calves or arms. This adjusts the body temperature and, at best, reduces discomfort. There are different types of wraps. Thus, some wraps are treated with vinegar, on others curd is applied and often healing earth is used to achieve an appropriate effect. The methods of application can also be quite different. Mostly, calf compresses are used as a home remedy, but they are also used in professional medicine. Especially in combination with classical preparations against fever, calf wraps are often used. Despite the many uses, variations and additives, calf wraps are not completely risk-free. There are a variety of problems that can arise from the use of the wraps.
Function, effect and goals
Calf wraps are cloths that are wrapped around the legs and often the arms to reduce fever. They are usually lukewarm and can be made in several ways. Thus, there is the possibility of adding certain additives to the wraps, such as vinegar or curd, which is intended to enhance the effect. There are also warm and cold wraps. While cold compresses are mostly used in case of fever to extract heat from the body and relieve inflammation, warm compresses are used in case of cramps. They promote blood circulation and are therefore suitable for the treatment of various diseases. The goal of a poultice treatment is primarily to reduce fever or relieve cramps. Both are achieved by the warm or cold compresses intervening in the blood circulation and also in the circulatory system. Since this is not without risk, a doctor should always be consulted before using a poultice. Basically, when using wraps, it should be noted that not every child finds them pleasant. Parents should therefore first try lukewarm swaddling and then decide whether further treatment with the proven home remedy is appropriate. Also to note: Swaddles are only effective with adequate bed rest. Especially directly after treatment, it is necessary to spend a lot of time in bed, so that the calf compresses can fully develop their effect. When children are treated, good attention should be paid to their signals. Do they feel comfortable with the wraps? When is relief felt? Is the wrap possibly too hot or too cold? All of these questions need to be answered. Lastly: Only use the wraps when there is no acute inflammation or open wounds. In both cases it makes more sense to consult a doctor. This can initiate appropriate treatment and also explain the risks and dangers.
Risks, side effects and dangers
Calf wraps can reduce fever and help with various other conditions. However, they also carry some risks that should not be underestimated. Thus, in the worst case, the circulation of the sick person may collapse during the illness. This is usually the case if the wraps are too cold and have been soaked in ice water, for example. Then the affected person first gets cold, he starts to freeze and he gets dizzy. In the worst case, the circulation collapses after a few minutes. To avoid this, the wraps should be lukewarm at most. In addition, a doctor should be consulted if the fever exceeds 39 degrees. This can initiate additional therapy methods and thus reduce the risks. One danger that generally exists with calf wraps is temperature accumulation. In this case, the heat accumulates under the wrap and, in the worst case, the fever increases. To avoid this, the wraps must be changed regularly. It is also advisable to use different wraps that do not put too much strain on the circulation. In addition, suitable materials should be used. Tree and linen cloths are particularly suitable for calf wraps, as the heat can circulate well and the legs are well ventilated.This also allows oxygen to reach the calves, which accelerates healing. As a rule, calf wraps should not be used on small children and infants. There is a risk that the cold stimulus will cause severe restlessness and thus increase the fever. In addition, the vessels constrict and heat dissipation is disturbed. For these reasons, it is advisable to avoid the use of calf wraps in young children. Instead, the body should be brought to an appropriate temperature by washing. Antipyretic medications can also be applied and used in combination with calf wraps. In any case, treatment methods should be discussed with a physician in advance. In addition, care must be taken to determine what type of illness is involved. Not all types of fever and cramps can be treated with wraps, for example, because the body is too weakened or the circulatory system is damaged by the defense mechanisms. The most sensible course of action is to consult a physician when a fever is present and decide with him or her whether the use of calf wraps is appropriate.
