You probably know that applying heat or ice to a painful joint can help relieve
pain, but have questions about these simple techniques. Which one? Why? How
often? How long?
The only time you must choose “ice” is during the first 48 hours after a sudden
injury or surgery. Cooling the area causes the nearby blood vessels to
constrict; there is less swelling, so there is less pain. Heat opens up the
area’s blood vessels, improving the flow. Increased circulation brings oxygen
and healing elements to the scene, while flushing away wastes: in with the good,
out with the bad.
Use your ice/heat pack as often as you’d like; at least three times a day. Heat
before activity warms up the joints, and ice afterward cools the inflammation
from the friction in arthritic joints. Most packs can be frozen or heated; buy
two. Keep one in the freezer, pop one in the microwave when you need it.
When trying to find relief from your daily arthritis pain, you can’t go wrong by
experimenting here! Choose a large ice/heat pack that is pliable enough to cover
and conform to your painful joint. Try it for 20 minutes (check your skin every
5 minutes!) If you feel better, then you’ve made the right choice! If not, try
the other.
Take notes on what works. Make good use of low-tech, low-cost, low-risk,
common-sense health habits that pay off in many ways!
Want to learn more? Visit knowyourbones.com to order “Making Sense of
Arthritis Medicine: Manage Your Symptoms Safely” and discover relief that’s
right for you!
About The Author:
Stephanie E. Siegrist, MD is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in her 10th
year of practice, and author of "Making Sense of Arthritis Medicine." She's one
of only 3% of U.S. orthopedic surgeons who are women! Dr. Siegrist strives to
bridge the gaps that exist in today's doctor-patient relationship with
"Information Therapy!" Complete information about Dr. Siegrist, and the book,
are available from her website knowyourbones.com.
