Should You Use Ice or Heat When You Have an Injury or Discomfort?

Ice:

Best used within 48 hours of initial injury

Helps reduce swelling

Helps numb the discomfort

Heat:

Better for chronic injuries or discomfort

Helps muscles relax

Helps loosen stiff joints

Improves blood flow to the area

Usually preferred for chronic neck or back discomfort

Often preferred with arthritis

Ultimately, if your injury or discomfort is not recent, using ice or heat may be a personal preference as to which helps manage your symptoms more. If you have questions about using ice or heat because of an ache or discomfort you have, contact your OccuCare.