There has always been a debate on when to use cold compress and when to use hot compress. I shall explain a bit on when to use hot and when to use cold.
When you have an inflammation, use COLD. For example: sprained ankle, strained ligaments that are swollen. ALWAYS use COLD compress. If you have a swollen/inflammed area, using a hot compress will aggravate the condition as the heat will cause the area there to "expand". Meaning it will get more inflammed and swollen. Cold compression will bring the swelling down and reduce the pain also.
HOT compression works on muscle aches. What causes muscles aches? Your muscles are tight and contracted, causing the soreness you feel, plus all the lactic acid build up. Putting the hot compress will regulate the blood flow and loosen the muscles and will reduce the soreness..
When you have a muscle soreness...people tend to stop exercising and rest. Instead, you should keep active, because moving will increase blood flow and take away the soreness faster than anything.
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