Palm Beach Health Center

Have you ever been in a situation where you didn’t know whether to use an ice pack or a heating pack to relieve pain? Both ice and heat are great ways to help people dealing with joint, neck, or back pain in 33411. They shouldn’t be used interchangeably, though. So, how do you know what to use for your condition?

When to Use Ice vs. Heat

Ice is best to help with acute conditions to reduce inflammation, while heat can help those with chronic conditions to improve blood circulation. Below are some moments where it’s best to use one over the other and why.

ICE: Fractures

When there’s a break in the bone, it’s called a fracture. It can cause a lot of inflammation because the body is trying to protect itself and start the healing process.

ICE: Sprains

A sprain happens when the ligaments in a joint stretches or tears. Inflammation can also occur from strains as the body tries to heal itself.

HEAT: Tight Muscles

Tight muscles can occur due to overuse, dehydration, an injury, or stress. Heat is great for relaxing those muscles and relieving the discomfort.

HEAT: Muscle Spasms

Muscle spasms occur when your muscles involuntarily and uncontrollably contract. When you put heat on a muscle spasm, it can increase blood circulation to the area and get the muscle to relax.

The Dangers of Using the Wrong One at the Wrong Time

Patients must understand when to use ice and when to use heat. Using the wrong one at the wrong time can make your condition worse and increase your pain and suffering. When you put ice on a chronic injury, it won’t be beneficial to you. When you put heat on a chronic injury, it’ll increase inflammation in the area, lead to more pain, and slow the healing process down.

Do You Want to Get Rid of Your Neck Pain in 33411?

Knowing what to use to help your injury will make a difference in how quickly you can heal. At Palm Beach Health Center, we have the resources and knowledge to help eliminate body aches you may be experiencing. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.