Explain the pumping action on blood and lymph that occurs with alternating or contrast

applications.

What will be an ideal response?

The major effect of a contrast application, whether it is local or systemic, is the movement of blood and lymph. Blood and lymph are driven away from the cold (through vasoconstriction) and driven toward the warmth (through vasodilation), resulting in a pumping action. Nutrients and blood cells are brought to an area of tissue; wastes and cell debris are taken away.