How can I know when it is right to us heat or cold on pain?
Aug 26, 2010 in
Health FAQs
Some people say a heat bag is needed, others say a cold pack from the fridge would be better. I’ve been having hot wax treatment for arthritis but I sometimes think it is doing more harm than good. When I run cold water over my wrists they feel much better. Anyone know the answer to this?
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2 comments
imsety on August 26, 2010 at 12:43 am
That depends on the symptoms. Cold reduces inflammation and swelling and relieves pain better than heat (though alternating between cold and heat provides greater relief for some people). But cold may increase joint stiffness. Heat relaxes muscles and tendons and promotes circulation, so it’s the best choice for boosting the mobility of stiff joints. Finally, heat and cold can each help tame muscle spasms.
Whichever approach you choose, follow these precautions:
Apply heat or cold for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time, letting the skin return to normal temperature before reapplying.
Place a cloth or towel between your skin and the heating or cooling device.
Stop immediately if your skin blisters or turn either dark red or spotty red and white.
Don’t use heat or cold on damaged skin. And don’t use them at all if you suffer from poor circulation, nerve damage, or a condition that may cause either of those problems, such as diabetes, Raynaud’s disease, or vasculitis.
I hope this helps you. And good luck.
DeannetheGreat on August 26, 2010 at 12:43 am
There are exceptions to the rule, but generally, you may put on whichever gives you relief. The important thing is to limit the time of the heat or cold to 20 minutes. Take a break from the application for 20 minutes, and so on. There are positive aspects of both heat and cold applications.
One exception to the rule is that one should never place a hot/warm pack on the abdomen if an appendicitis is suspected.
Best of luck.
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