Cold and Heat Therapy
When we sustain an injury, the body begins to repair itself immediately. The damaged part begins to receive increased blood flow, which can lead to inflammation. While inflammation is a natural by-product of the healing process, it can sometimes result in swelling and pain - and that is where heat and cold therapies come into play. Most doctors recommend R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation) therapy. When applied immediately to an injury, cold can reduce both pain and inflammation. After a few days of applying cold to the injury (when swelling has decreased), it’s a good time to apply heat therapy. Heat increases blood flow and helps to speed up the healing process as well as promote flexibility. If you are injured, call your doctor for advice. The information provided in this post is not meant to diagnose or cure any medical problems.
Cold therapy can help to relieve chronic discomfort associated with the following:
- Arthritis
- Back Pain
- Burns
- Headache Pain
- Neck Pain
- Sinus Inflammation
- Toothaches
Cold/Heat therapy can help to alleviate temporary pain from:
- Muscular Sprains/Strains
- Post-Surgical Pain
- Some injuries
Heat therapy may relieve pain and restore flexibility for specific ailments such as:
- Arthritis
- Cramps
- Muscle Aches
- Menstrual Cramping
November 20 2008 10:47 am | Health