| During my 27 years of private practice many | | | | doubt it. Most people would use ice. |
| patients have asked me when they should use ice | | | | Well, when someone hurts their lower back, for |
| vs heat. I always start that conversation by | | | | example, the pain indicates that something is |
| explaining some basic facts. The main use of ice is | | | | irritated. And when there is irritation there is some |
| to reduce swelling or inflammation, not necessarily | | | | degree of swelling. Pt's would normally receive |
| to reduce pain. Ice can reduce pain by dulling or | | | | more benefit from using ice in these |
| numbing the injured area, but it is not primarily a | | | | circumstances because the ice decreases the |
| pain reducer. Heat, on the other hand, has a | | | | swelling. This is turn reduces the amount of |
| soothing affect on most musculo skeletal | | | | pressure on the nerves of the lower back . |
| conditions. | | | | I remember many years ago someone told me |
| Let's face it, patients come to my office to feel | | | | ice the first 24 hours and heat after that. In my |
| better. However, if heat is utilized too soon it can | | | | office I have a different rule of thumb. Ice as long |
| actually cause more damage. Here is why...let's | | | | as there is signs of swelling or pain. With any |
| say you sprain your ankle. Doesn't it swell up? | | | | medical advise always consult with your personal |
| What would you use on a swollen ankle? Would | | | | physician to determine the best course of |
| you put a heating pad on a swollen ankle? I would | | | | treatment for your specific condition. |