Cold Therapy – How does it work?
The swelling and information that results from an injury and primarily caused by fluid leaking from damaged blood vessels. Application of cold to the injury helps constrict the blood vessels, reducing their tendency to leak and restricting the amount of fluid buildup, thereby reducing the degree of swelling and information. Lowering the temperature of the skin over the injury can also help reduce pain and muscle spasms.
Cold Therapy – When should cold therapy be used?
Cold therapy is recommended for treatment of acute or sudden injury, and is recommended as the immediate treatment for almost all sports injuries, including stress fractures, sprains, pulled muscles, tendonitis, hamstring injuries, runner’s knee, and tennis elbow. Treatments with cold may be effective for acute flare-ups of chronic conditions, and cold therapy has also been used for many years for the relief of pain associated with migraine headaches.
Heat Therapy – How does it work?
By activating receptors found in tendons, muscles, ligaments, and joints. Heat inhibits pain receptors, reduces muscle tension, and enhances blood flow to tissue. Increased blood flow improves healing by allowing an influx of cells involved in tissue repair. The effects of heat also decreased joint stiffness.
Heat Therapy - When should heat therapy be used?
Heat therapy is commonly used for everyday muscle aches, soreness, stiffness and spasms, back aches, and various forms of arthritis. Heat is also recommended to treat chronic ailments, including muscle tightness and tension, and may be effective therapy after 4 or 5 days following an injury.