Pain: When applying heat or cold?

Apply heat or cold is one of the most popular home remedies to relieve certain ailments. However, choose between the two can be major differences. We will see when applying heat or cold to relieve pain and, above all, how to apply it correctly.

The heat helps reduce the pain of regulation, while cold is good for relieving tired legs or to reduce inflammation after a stroke. It is important to know when to apply one or the other to get the remedy is effective and does not have the opposite effect.

Pain when applying cold

The cold has an analgesic effect, so it is good to use it in case of muscle injuries, joint or tendon. It is also effective to alleviate headaches, migraines, the sprains, tendinitis or simply to promote muscle recovery after practicing intense physical activity.

What is the effect of cold? Its main effect is that it is a vasoconstrictor, which decreases the blood supply to a particular area. In the case of a lesion, prevent spreading. When implemented, the correct way is to wrap a towel around ice, avoiding direct contact with the skin. We can also cool a mask in the fridge, which helps to relieve pain, reduce migraine and avoid eye puffiness. Showering at a temperature of 10-12 degrees is good for the body, especially in the morning and evening. No defenses but only increases resistance to certain diseases. Another interesting option is cold gels, which favor the drainage and release, for example, the legs.

Pain when applying heat

The heat has a relaxing effect, so it is ideal to reduce the discomfort of neck and stiff shoulders. It is also recommended in case of chronic diseases, such as arthritis or tendonitis. It is an effective remedy to relieve the pains in the abdominal area and joint injuries. Applying heat helps to reduce the pain caused by muscle spasms or slow blood circulation (menstruation, poor digestion…).

It works just the opposite that cold, i.e., promotes vasodilation, increase the blood supply to a particular area. To apply it correctly uses electric blanket or the classic hot water, effective in cases of menstrual pain, back and neck pain. If the problem is in the bloodstream, it can also use the method of hot stones (done in treatment centers). Another option is relaxing pads that are heated directly in the microwave, ideal for relieving tension and relax the nervous system.

Pain: Combine hot and cold

There are some cases where it can combine heat and cold, for example in the case of swollen ankles to facilitate the venous circulation. It can also be effective in cases of residual inflammation.