Heat or Ice?
As a chiropractor, I get this question all the time: Should I use heat or ice for pain?
Here’s my take; heat is often the better choice for most musculoskeletal conditions, especially when dealing with chronic tension, stiffness, or general discomfort. Heat helps increase circulation, relax tight muscles, and support your body’s natural healing response.
BUT, there’s an exception.
If you’ve had a recent acute injury (think sprains, strains, or swelling within the first 24-48 hours), ice is more appropriate. It helps calm inflammation and reduce pain by constricting blood vessels and numbing the area.
Quick guide:
Chronic pain or tightness? Go with moist heat (a warm compress, heated rice pack, or hot bath).
Fresh injury with swelling or bruising? Stick to ice (10-15 minutes max, wrapped in a towel).
And remember, both are short-term tools. For long-term healing, let’s get to the root cause.
Questions? Drop them below or ask at your next visit, we’re here to help you align and thrive.