Should I use ice or heat for my arthritis pain?
A common question that I hear is whether to use ice or heat for aches and pains. The general rule is that in the first 48 hours after an injury, ice should be used to reduce inflammation. After the first 48 hours, ice or heat may be used. The common sense advice is: use what works! If ice makes the pain feel better, then use that. If heat makes the pain feel better, that is okay, too.
Ice is an excellent anti-inflammatory while heat is...
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Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
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Source: Medifocus Guidebook on: Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Use Ice Before Exercising Cold can decrease pain and swelling and reduce muscle spasms. It blocks the release of histamine which decreases the feeling of pain. Cold packs, ice massage, and cold baths can help. Suit Up Use splints or braces...
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