Heat and cold are the two most common types of non invasive pain-relief therapies for muscle and joint pain. In general, a new injury will cause inflammation and possibly swelling. Ice will decrease the blood flow to the injury, thereby decreasing inflammation and swelling. Pain that recurs can be treated with heat, which will bring blood to the area and promote healing.

HEAT THERAPY

WHAT DOES HEAT THERAPY DO?

The warmth also decreases muscle spasms and can increase range of motion. Applying superficial heat to your body can improve the flexibility of tendons and ligaments, reduce muscle spasms, and alleviate pain.

HOW IS IT APPLIED?

Moist heat may penetrate better. Heat can be applied by an electric or microwavable heating pad, hot water bottle, gel packs, or hot water baths

WHEN DO YOU USE IT?

Apply heat if you have stiff joints or chronic muscle and joint pain.

HOW CAN I USE IT SAFELY?

Don’t apply it directly to skin. Instead, wrap the hot device in a thin towel.

COLD THERAPY

WHAT DOES COLD THERAPY DO?

Cold slows down blood flow to an injury, thereby reducing pain and swelling. Cold therapy slows circulation, reducing inflammation, muscle spasm, and pain. It should be used if the area is swollen or bruised.

HOW IS IT APPLIED?

Cold is applied by an ice or gel pack.

WHEN DO YOU USE IT?

Any cold treatment should be used for 24 to 48 hours after an injury. Cold therapy is good for sprains, strains, bumps, and bruises that may occur in sports or lifting.

HOW CAN I USE IT SAFELY?

Don’t apply it for longer than 20 minutes. Also, wrap ice or ice packs in a thin towel before applying.