Hot or cold compress: which should you use?

Effects of heat

- Dilates blood vessels and increases blood circulation

- Reduces muscle spasm and helps muscles relax

- Relieves pain according to the Gate Control Theory

- Reduces joint stiffness and increases the range of motion of the joints

When to use a hot compress

- Tight, aching muscles, stiff joints or menstrual cramps

- Chronic pain

- 48–72 hours after the onset of symptoms, after cold compresses have been applied

- Apply for 15–20 minutes at a time, 2–3 times a day

Effects of cold

- Reduces tissue injury

- Reduces blood flow after an injury

- Reduces inflammation and swelling 

- Reduces pain

When to use a cold compress

- Immediately after a sports injury

- Headaches and migraines 

- Acute pain, such as a sprained ankle

- Apply a cold compress immediately, within 24–48 hours

- Apply for 20–30 minutes at a time, 2–3 times a day

Tips

- A warm compress should feel comfortably warm, not hot.

- A cold compress should feel comfortably cool.

- Do not apply warm or cold compresses to open wounds, as there is a risk of infection.

- While applying a warm or cold compress, check the skin for heat or cold burns (Burn).

- Wrap the compress in a clean towel first.

- Leave about 1–2 hours between each warm or cold compress session.

You can contact Rehab Care Clinic to consult our rehabilitation physicians and physical therapists about your health concerns. 

For more information, contact "Rehab Care Clinic"

Address: 423 Phetkasem Road, Bang Wa, Phasi Charoen, Bangkok (inside Kanari Sports Center, before Seacon Bang Khae) ? 061-801-2482 Line ID : @rehabcare