Personal Best Health Wellness - Heat or Ice for Healing
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| HEALTH & WELLNESS RESOURCES |
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 Heat and cold have opposite effects that can aid the healing of muscle strains and injuries, depending on the timing and type of injury. Here are some self-care guidelines:
COLD reduces blood flow to the injured area by constricting the arteries. This decreases bleeding, muscle spasm and pain. Cold is also a vital component of first-aid therapy: It reduces swelling, which can also reduce recovery time. Remember RICE – rest, ice, compression and elevation.
Ice or cold packs are generally used for the first several days after an acute injury. Keep a damp cloth between the cold pack and your skin. Apply for 10 minutes twice a day.
HEAT increases blood flow to the injured area by dilating arteries. This can help promote healing in the sub-acute or chronic phases of an injury after swelling has subsided. Apply a heating pad or warm pack to the affected area for 15 minutes twice a day.
Whether using cold or heat, be careful to avoid frostbite or burns on your skin.
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A copy of this 16-page report is FREE to you as a benefit to you and your organization.
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