Is cold or heat better for muscle pain?

Is cold or heat better for muscle pain?

The bottom line Ice can reduce pain and inflammation by decreasing blood flow to the affected area and is better for acute pain or injuries. Heat can soothe and heal muscles by increasing blood flow and is more beneficial for chronic pain or injuries.

Do you put heat on muscle pain?

When exercise is very intense, there may not be enough blood flow to eliminate all the chemicals. It is the buildup of chemicals (for example, lactic acid) that cause muscle ache. Because the blood supply helps eliminate these chemicals, use heat to help sore muscles after exercise.

Does heat make muscle pain worse?

Heat will make the swelling and pain worse, which is not what you want. You also should not apply heat if your body is already hot — for example, if you’re sweating. It won’t be effective. One of the benefits of heat therapy is that you can apply it for longer than you can use ice.

What does cold do to muscles?

Cold can reduce inflammation. The end result: Less inflammation and a lower risk of muscle soreness and injury.

How do I relax my muscles?

Rest. Perhaps the best and most natural way to relax your muscles is to rest. Make sure to get lots of sleep, drink plenty of fluids, and try not to overwork the affected muscle. Using heat pads or ice packs on the muscle can provide immediate relief.

How long after ice can I apply heat?

Ice & Heat Together As a more advanced treatment, use ice AND heat. To achieve therapeutic results, you must do this in a very specific way. The key is to ice for 20 minutes, causing the vessels to narrow, and then heat for 15 minutes, causing the vessels to dilate.

Can I use both heat and ice?

Heat therapy will usually ease the muscle stiffness after the inflammation resolves. But heat and ice can be used together in an alternating pattern to create a “pumping” action in the circulatory system by restricting circulation to reduce swelling and then increasing circulation to a particular area.

Which is better for muscle pain?

Muscle ache or pulled/strained muscle. Ibuprofen typically works better for this kind of pain relief, due to the anti-inflammatory effects.

What is a natural remedy for muscle pain?

Natural Remedies For Body Aches and Pains

• Epsom Salt Soak. A classic remedy for sore muscles and joints is to take a relaxing bath with Epsom Salts.
• Hot and Cold Packs.
• Getting Enough Movement & Exercise.
• Collagen & Other Natural Supplements.
• Neurologically-Based Chiropractic Care.

What causes muscle pain?

The most common causes of muscle pain are tension, stress, overuse and minor injuries. This type of pain is usually localized, affecting just a few muscles or a small part of your body.

How can I stop muscle pain?

Rest and elevate the painful area. Alternate between ice packs to reduce inflammation and heat to improve blood flow. Soak in a warm bath with Epsom salts or take a warm shower. Take over-the-counter pain relievers (aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen).

What is the best treatment for muscle pain?

How long will muscle pain last?

Usually your muscles will stop aching in 2-5 days and you won’t need any medical attention. You should be able to ease symptoms yourself using ice packs, massage, light stretching or by taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication.

How long can muscle pain last?

What is the reason of muscle pain?