2/28/2011

When to alternate between Ice and Heat.

In my newsletter I will discuss when it is appropriate to use heat versus ice. It is also quite beneficial to alternate between the two. It is confusing, but also effective.

First you have to prevent epidermis injury. Make sure not to burn nor freeze yourself. Apply the next therapy after the skin has somewhat visibly recovered from the previous an. Each application only lasting a max of about 10-20 minutes each.

Second, this alternating therapy is used between an injury being acute and chronic. The first 48 hours of an injury you want to apply ice, ice massage, cold bath, etc. Then this is when you alternate between ice and heat. This stage lasts around 48-72 hours. Then you would move on to heat. With ice applications when necessary. ALWAYS END WITH ICE. This is to prevent any type of further swelling or inflammation.

Third, why....... When alternating you are keeping the swelling down, but at the same time promoting circulation. Ice causes vasoconstriction (closing of small blood vessels) and heat causes vasodilation (opening of small blood vessels). Using both produces a stronger pump for your blood to bring in more nutrients and to take away swelling, inflammation, and built up metabolic waste from the injury.