Have sore muscles after a long weekend of yard work? Stiff back from sitting in an uncomfortable office chair for 40 hours during the week? Knowing when to use ice or a heating pad can be crucial in getting you back to feeling like your normal self! Both treatments have been used for years to help minimize swelling, relax muscles, and reduce pain, but how do you know when to use the correct therapy? The chiropractic experts at our Mequon, Thiensville, and Random Lake offices have a few tips to share.

Icing sore or aching muscles should be done after injuring or aggravating a traumatized area as it reduces the blood flow to the affected area, reducing swelling. Ice helps diminish acute pain, while minimizing swelling and inflammation of the affected area. Ice should be used within the first 48 hours of acute injury.

Using a heat source can help loosen and relax muscles. This should be done before enduring an aggravating activity, such as exercising, because it brings blood flow to the area, calming the area. Using a heat pad or hot towel is recommended for chronic injuries.

It is important to note that one should not apply ice or heat any longer than 20 minutes on an irritated area as this could cause serious tissue damage.

To learn more about pain relief, schedule a consultation with the chiropractors at ProHealth Chiropractic Center in Thiensville or Random Lake.