Today’s quick tip might come as a shock to you.
I say that because most patients I talk to are confused about this.
When you have an acute injury or pain, what should you reach for first, heat or ice? Most patients think it’s heat. And while heat can help in easing tense muscles, the answer is [drum roll please]…
ICE.
Job #1 in any flare up or sudden pain is controlling inflammation and encouraging proper blood flow. This is what ice does. It constricts the blood vessels so the swelling can go down and, when removed, allows them to expand again so there’s a better flow of healing nutrients and compounds to the injured cells.
Heat can actually make things worse.
That’s why in probably 95% of cases, ice should be your default.
Just remember the R.I.C.E. formula. Rest. Ice. Compression. Elevation. This will help you to have a more effective first response. Shoot me an email if you have any questions about this. I’ll be happy to advise.
Anyway, that’s all she wrote (or “he” I guess) for today.
We’re counting down to the baby’s due date this month.
Enjoying the “rest” while we can. :-)
Sincerely In Health,
Dr. Josh
