What type of treatment primarily focuses on applying heat to promote recovery?

The type of treatment that primarily focuses on applying heat to promote recovery is thermotherapy. This method utilizes heat to increase blood flow to the affected areas, relax muscles, and alleviate pain. By promoting circulation, thermotherapy can help accelerate the healing process following injuries or surgeries. Heat therapy is particularly beneficial for chronic pain conditions, stiffness, and muscle tension, as it helps to ease discomfort and improve flexibility.

Cryotherapy, on the other hand, involves the use of cold applications and is aimed at reducing swelling and numbing pain. Surgery is an invasive procedure and is not focused on heat application for recovery. Massage therapy can incorporate heat application as part of a treatment plan but is broader in scope, involving various techniques for muscle relaxation and tension alleviation. In the context of the question, thermotherapy is specifically the heat-based treatment that aligns directly with the goal of promoting recovery.