Cold or Heat - What's Best?

Cold is best to use within 48 hours of an injury. This stage is characterized by swelling and moderate to severe pain. The swelling is due to blood and inflammatory cells engorging the area and leads to stagnant, oxygen-poor blood and prolonged inflammation, which inhibits tissue repair. Repeated cold application creates a flushing effect, drawing fresh blood in and dissipating inflammatory cells. It also temporarily numbs the pain receptors, thus breaking the pain-spasm cycle.

Whatever type of cold you choose, remember these keys points:

1. Always wrap it in a thin towel.
2. Use compression if possible.
3. Apply for 10-15 minutes, no more.
4. Give the area time to warm up before reapplying.
5. Use 3-5 times a day.

Heat is best to use when an injury is old and swelling is minimal. Moist heat is preferred and generally can be applied for 10-20 minutes.

A heat and cold combination may also be suggested by your chiropractor. First use heat to relax the muscles for 15-20 minutes. Then switch to cold to reduce the swelling for 15-20 minutes. Rest for 60 minutes and repeat as needed, at least 3-5 times a day.

Cold or heat should be used as a first-aid measure only. Pain is a signal from your body that something is wrong. Consult your chiropractor as soon as possible to accurately assess the cause of the pain and decide on a course of treatment.