When to use hot vs cold therapy for pain management (Click to enlarge)
OVERVIEW
The mind-numbing pain of a muscle injury or ailment can cause you to lose focus, and you may be unable to decide whether to treat it with hot or cold therapy. But fret not, injuries carry tell-tale signs that can signal whether you should reach for a cold or warm compress as the best treatment option.
HEAT THERAPY
Heat therapy is used to heal many musculoskeletal injuries that are more chronic such as, but not limited to, a pulled muscle, joint pain, back pain, pinched nerve, and arthritis. Heat therapy works by boosting circulation and blood flow, which in turn allows oxygen and nutrients to refuel the joints and muscles in the body. This process helps to repair damaged tissues and muscles while relieving inflammation in the affected area. An excellent example of when to use heat therapy is when you want to cure sore or tight muscles. Here, the heat acts as a catalyst for blood flow, which improves circulation to your muscles and allows them to relax. Heat therapy can be applied in many ways, such as with a hot water bottle or a microwaved gel or oat compress. Using heat therapy for 15-20 minutes will provide great relief to the affected area.
COLD THERAPY
If your injury is acute, for instance, one that came on suddenly in the aftermath of a hard fall, cold therapy works best. Immediately decreasing pain and swelling, the cold constricts blood vessels while working to reduce inflammation at the injury’s location. Cold therapy also reduces nerve activity temporarily, offering comfort for the patient while helping heal the affected area. Using a cold compress, such as ice or a refrigerated gel pack on the affected area for 15–20 minutes, will aid in a fast recovery.
RAPID AID’S HOT AND COLD THERAPY OFFERINGS
Hot and Cold therapy is an inexpensive, proven, and safe alternative to medication while providing the user with almost immediate comfort. Rapid Aid boasts a portfolio of hot and cold therapy products that includes instant products, reusable gels, wellness and comfort products that feature oats and clay, and products targeted for pre or post-natal discomfort. The application uses of our products is limitless as they can treat nearly every part of the body as needed. Rapid Aid proudly has treated millions of bumps and bruises around the world with its traditional approach to health care, and we continue to develop innovative products to help provide users with the comfort they deserve.
For more information on Rapid Aid’s commitment to an all-natural healthcare approach contact one of our sales agents today.
