Do I use Heat Therapy or Cold Therapy?

 
When it comes to back pain, there are mixed views to which therapeutic methods are the best. Some say ice compression; some say heat therapy. Which is better? It will all depend on individual situations and preference. As always, if your back pain is severe, consult with your doctor immediately. One question to answer is, when to use ice treatments?
Ice is good to use when treating new pain from fresh injuries and strains, especially within the first 48hrs. "In a world of sophisticated medical care, a simple ice massage can still be one of the more effective, proven methods to treat a sore back or neck, either when used alone or in combination with other treatments," says Stephen H. Hochschuler, MD in his 2006 article regarding ice and heat therapy. Ice treatments will initially reduce swelling, minimize any bleeding because the cold inhibits circulation by vein constriction. Also, due to this fact, there will be a reduction of damage to tissues and less muscle spasms. The ice treatments will decrease the amount of pain experienced by numbing the injured area.
Moreover, the treatments should be applied immediately and last no longer than 20 minutes. Make sure that ice is not directly applied to bare skin, for it can do more damage than good. A major misconception about ice is to apply it to skin after it has been burned. Big no, no. Ice burns skin, too. Ice should be used properly to treat muscle pains both immediately and for reoccurring pains. It helps relax muscles and helps tissues recover. But isn't that what heat therapy does?
Yes, heat therapy will help reduce pain and minimize spasms. Dr. Stephen H. Hochschuler notes, "heat therapy is probably more beneficial to the healing process by increasing circulation. The desired effect is for the heat to penetrate down into the muscles." Heat should not be used on new injuries or areas that are swollen or bleeding, because it will increase bleeding by causing the blood vessels to expand, allowing more blood in the injured area. This is why, during rehabilitation, heat will have a soothing feeling and relieve cramping and stiffness, allowing nutrients in the blood to circulate through the wound.
To treat with heat, make sure that the heated temperature is gentle to the skin, prevent possible burns. As with ice, heat should not be applied directly on the skin and should be checked periodically for possible skin damage. Heat should be uses properly to treat muscle pains during rehabilitation. With older injuries and pains, some people prefer the use of both ice and heat therapy for optimal pain reduction, the natural way, primarily on constant back pain.
When it comes to back issues, especially the lower back, you can find many products to help treat pain. There are compresses, pills, creams, ice packs and heating pads. Something to consider would be a lower back support brace that can heat and cool. "This support is ideal for men and women needing treatment for minor back aches and pains resulting from sprains, muscle soreness and strains, cramping, or contusion (bruising) and can be used during activity or when standing or sitting for an extended period of time. Features a reusable gel pack that can be heated in the microwave for therapeutic heat or stored in the freezer for cold therapy. A mesh pocket holds the gel insert over the lower lumbar region," as stated by the orthopedic specialists, FLA Orthopedics. Everyone likes the all-in-one one stop shop deals. When treating muscle pain initially with ice and later with heat, a back support such as this will work as a great tool for your healing process.

Whether you use heat or ice to remedy your pain, keep in mind the different temperature affects on the type of pain injury to your body. Always seek advise from a doctor before you begin any muscle pain treatments. May we all strive for a pain free existence.

STOP SUFFERING FROM BACK
AND JOINT PAIN!

Are you tired of suffering?

Order Orthopedic Products

This information is from
http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/heat-therapy-cold-therapy/ahhice-massage-therapy-back-pain-relief, http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/23069070/, and http://www.flahme.com/flahme.storefront/48513efd071eccb82717424d36c80647/Catalog/2724

To the best of our knowledge, the information contained herein is accurate. However, neither Binson's, or any of its subsidiaries assumes any liability whatsoever for the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. This information is for educational purposes only.