Ice or Heat? Which One is Best for Injuries?

If you have an injury to your foot or ankle, should you use ice or heat? Should you use a combination of both?

This is a common question we frequently receive from patients who have heard all sorts of misinformation when it comes to recovery from a muscle strain or a sprain.

While we have different answers depending on what injury you have sustained, it’s important to know what ice and heat treatments are used for so you’ll know which method is appropriate when you experience an injury.

Ice

Applying an ice compression can help alleviate inflamed, hot, and injured tissues, as well as act as a pain reliever. However, you should never place ice directly on the skin.

Inflammation occurs when the tissue capillaries leak blood and other fluids in the area. If you apply heat, it will cause the damaged capillaries to dilate, which will actually cause more pain in the affected area.

Heat

Heat is effective in relaxing muscle spasms and increasing blood circulation. Applying heat prior to a workout will also help relax and loosen muscles and reduce the risk of pulled muscles.

Like ice, you shouldn’t place heat directly on the skin.

Combination of Heat and Ice

A combination of heat and ice can also be applied when there’s an injury to the muscle. You should first apply ice until the inflammation has subsided before applying heat.

If rest, along with ice or heat doesn’t help with pain or swelling, you should seek the opinion of a podiatrist, as your injury could be more serious than you thought.

If you are suffering from a foot injury and would like evaluated by one of our physicians at Triad Foot & Ankle Center, please call 336-375-6990, or click here to schedule an appointment online.