Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Which is More Suitable for Pain--Ice or Heat?

We all have those moments that we are experiencing excruciating pain with certain parts of our bodies and we are looking for a quick fix--sometimes to no avail, as in getting some pain medication. If we cannot get any medications for our pain, then what are we suppose to do to alleviate it?

The answer may be in front of you! Have you thought about alleviating your pain with ice or heat, depending on your pain problem? Many of us haven't thought much about it!

The following are few of the common ailments that many of us suffer from and how to relieve your pain with either ice or heat:

Arthritis: This is worn-out cartilage that exists in your joints, as in your knees, shoulders, elbows, fingers, etc. Heat is the best solution to this problem; moist heat will relieve your stiff joints and it also gives your muscles some relaxation.

Headache: Of course, a headache is caused by pain from your nerves or blood vessels from the head or the neck muscles. Solution: Ice and heat--it gives that headache much needed relief; moisture from the heat will relax the neck spasms.

Sprains: This comes from ligament and/or stretching in joints, as in the ankle, foot, elbow, knee, etc. What is the solution for sprains? Ice and heat. In the case of ice, it reduces and eases inflammation and numbs the pain. With heat, it brings relief to the stiffness after the inflammation goes away.

Why should we use ice for injuries that are less than a month old? This is due to the fact that ice tightens blood vessels. As a result, it numbs the pain, reduces bruising, and alleviates inflammation.

Why use heat for injuries that are more than a month old? Heat boosts blood flow, which allows tight muscles to become relaxed and it relieves aching joints.

The bottom line: there is hope when we have injuries and suffering from aching and debilitating pain when there is no medication in sight--ice and heat should solve some of the pain problems. Of course, if your pain is more serious, you should consult with a physician.

Warning: It is suggested that heat should not be used in injuries that are acute; this will increase the inflammation and it may take longer for your injury to heal.


Did you have an injury recently? What did you use to get rid of the pain--ice or heat, or both? Please feel free to comment or give feedback in the Comments box.


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