Ice versus heat for injuries poster

Many of our patients have asked if an ice pack or heating pad is appropriate to treat their acute and/or chronic injury.
Some are unsure how long the treatments should last.

Here’s the answer…

❄Ice Treatment ❄

?commonly used for acute injuries (within the last 48 hours) where swelling is the issue.
?applying an ice pack early and often for the first 48 hours will help control pain and swelling
?may also be used for chronic injuries (e.x. overuse injuries in athletes).

?an athlete with an overuse injury should ice the injured area AFTER activity NEVER BEFORE activity

?NEVER place ice directly on an injury.. keep the pack moving to avoid ice burns
?NEVER treat the injury with ice for more than 30 minutes.  Be sure to remove the pack immediately if the injured area appears bright pink/red
?NEVER use ice packs on the left shoulder if you have a heart condition, and do not use ice packs around the front or side of the neck

?Heat Treatment?
?commonly used for chronic conditions (e.x. overuse injuries) to help relax tissues and stimulate blood flow to the area
?applying a heat pack for conditions such as overuse injuries before participating in activities is ideal.
?NEVER use heat where swelling is involved, it will just cause more bleeding in the tissue
?NEVER leave heating pads/towels on for extended periods of time or while sleeping

Other Notes For Cold Or Heat Packs:

Do Not Use These Packs:
?over areas of skin that are in poor condition, with poor sensation to heat/cold, or with known poor circulation
?if you have diabetes
?in the presence of infection

Make it a great day! ???

www.endurance8health.com

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