07/30/2024
When an injury occurs, or you're finding yourself in some pain, it can be tough to know whether you should use ice, or apply heat in order to get some relief. Avoid using topical creams that create a cooling or warming affect while directly using ice or heat.
Good rule of thumb for recent injuries: ice first to keep swelling at bay, heat later!
Keep ICE on for up to 20 minutes, using a barrier to avoid direct contact between your skin and the ice (like a towel.) Remove the ice and wait awhile before reapplying.
🧊 Reduces inflammation which in turn reduces pain!
🧊 Slightly numbing the area, easing the feelings of pain or tenderness.
🧊 Reduce painful muscle spasms
Apply HEAT for up to 20 minutes for injuries that are at least a few days old or chronic pain. ⭐️ It is important to hold off on heat for a fresh injury, because there is already inflammation present and heat can create more. Be sure to not cause yourself more pain and avoid getting burned by using a barrier.
🔥 Soothes sore, tired or spasming muscles.
🔥 Draws new blood to the area, which contains healing properties.
🔥 Decreases joint stiffness and increases mobility.
ALTERNATING: Creates a pumping action in the Circulatory System! Ice restricts circulation to reduce the swelling, and applying heat will increase the circulation to the particular area bringing nutrient dense blood to aid in healing.