Ice or Heat for Inflammation
A common question we get asked in our practice is if heat or ice can used to help alleviate symptoms of a new of existing condition. Before knowing when to apply either heat or ice, it’s important to know what kind of injury we’re dealing with. Let’s first discuss inflammation.
Inflammation is our bodies immune response to injury, trauma or infection. It is not always so clear to know which option of ice or heat is better for inflammation. Breaking down whether inflammation is acute (fresh) or chronic (recurrent and long lasting) can make it easier to understand when ice or heat is best utilized.
Acute inflammation is characterized by:
Usually due to injury or trauma
Sudden paid or redness may surround the area of injury
Loss of function (Ex: unable to bear weight or lack of joint mobility)
Swelling is present
Tenderness to the area
Lasting less than 2 weeks
Examples include: sports injuries, broken bones, falls or trauma, sprain/strain injuries
Chronic inflammation is characterized by:
Injury brought on by overuse of one body area
Response to a long-standing condition
May last weeks, months or years
Chronic or long-lasting discomfort
Can manifest body pain, fatigue, digestive distress, anxiety or other symptoms.
Affects many aspects of body function
Examples include: Osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint diseases, repetitive strain injuries or even autoimmune conditions.
The General Rule of ThumbUse ice to treat acute and new injuries that are accompanied by inflammation and swelling.
Use heat for chronic (ongoing) conditions for pain or stiffness.
One exception: Heat works well for acute muscle soreness or spasm that is brought on by an overexertion, such as trying a new workout, shovelling snow or weeding in the garden. Cold Therapy
Ice feels good on a new injury because it temporarily reduces blood flow (vasoconstriction) to the injured area. This can significantly reduce inflammation, pain and swelling if administered shortly after the injury takes place. It can also speed up healing time if done properly. Here’s how:
Apply the treatment as soon as possible to get the most benefit
For best results, elevate the affected area
Never apply cold therapy directly to the skin, use a towel or some kind of barrier to avoid skin or tissue damage.
Use several times a day for 10-15 minute periods
Continue for the first 48-72 hours after injury, after that you want to allow blood flow to promote the body’s natural healing ability.
Heat Therapy:
Heat can be helpful to soothe or relax muscle tension and can bring more blood flow to the area of injury. This can improve flexibility and promote healing. Here’s how:
Heat is best for body pain in muscle and joints that has been long standing.
Treatment should be warm, not too hot to avoid skin burning.
Heat may be used multiple times per day between 15-20 minute periods.
Do not use heat on bruises or open wounds.
Many patients under Chiropractic care report an improvement in acute or chronic inflammation. Lifestyle factors can contribute greatly to the inflammatory load of a person’s body.
Ask your Chiropractor at your next appointment on different ways to reduce your inflammation.
If you are looking for a versatile compress, we do carry wheat bags that can be used for heat therapy or cold therapy. Our Wheat bags are sourced by a local creative known as Wheat Bags by T!
Yours in Health,
Dr. Kayla Lucas
Yours in Health,
Dr. Kayla Lucas