During my 27 years of private practice many patients have asked me when they should use ice vs heat.
I always start that conversation by explaining some basic facts.
The main use of ice is to reduce swelling or inflammation, not necessarily to reduce pain.
Ice can reduce pain by dulling or numbing the injured area, but it is not primarily a pain reducer.
Heat, on the other hand, has a soothing affect on most musculo skeletal conditions.
Let's face it, patients come to my office to feel better.
However, if heat is utilized too soon it can actually cause more damage.
Here is why...
let's say you sprain your ankle.
Doesn't it swell up? What would you use on a swollen ankle? Would you put a heating pad on a swollen ankle? I would doubt it.
Most people would use ice.
Well, when someone hurts their lower back, for example, the pain indicates that something is irritated.
And when there is irritation there is some degree of swelling.
Pt's would normally receive more benefit from using ice in these circumstancesbecause the ice decreases the swelling.
This is turn reduces the amount of pressure on the nerves of the lower back .
I remember many years ago someone told me ice the first 24 hours and heat after that.
In my office I have a different rule of thumb.
Ice as long as there is signs of swelling or pain.
With any medical advise always consult with your personal physician to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.