Hot Compress

• Hot compresses or heat therapy is a method used for relief of chronic pain or injury issues with no inflammation or swelling. It is also an effective way to relieve muscular tightness. Hot compresses increase blood flow to the area and can increase the elasticity of the muscles and connective tissue surrounding the joints, thus minimizing stiffness and pain, and preparing the muscles to work more efficiently.
  
  The application of a hot compress should be no longer than 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Moist heat penetrates more effectively than dry heat. To assure the temperature remains warm not burning, a protecting towel layer should be used between skin and the hot compress.
  
  

When Not to Use Hot Compress

• Hot compresses are not recommended for acute injuries where inflammation or swelling is present. Other considerations include such things as heart disease, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease and open wounds. Before attempting the use of a hot compress, consult with your primary physician to minimize the risk of any adverse effects.
  
  

Cold Compress

• Cold compresses or cold therapy is an effective way to reduce inflammation or swelling of an acute injury. An acute injury involves symptoms that come on quickly, usually from a single activity or injury, which can last up to three days. The use of ice or cold compresses constricts the blood vessels and decreases pain and inflammation. Cold compresses are also an effective tool to combat chronic pain and injury issues, especially after activities.
  
  The application of a cold compress should be no longer than 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Reapplication should be used if symptoms continue, but only after the skin has returned to normal temperature.
  
  

When Not to Use Cold Compress

• Cold compresses are not recommended before activity as the constriction of blood vessels may cause further injury. Other considerations include such things as numbness and altered sensitivity often seen in such things as Raynaud's Phenomenon and cold hypersensitivities. Before attempting the use of a cold compress, consult with your primary physician to minimize the risk of any adverse effects.
  
  

Contrast Therapy

• Contrast therapy is the use of both cold and hot. Typically used in baths, the injured area is submerged into ice water and then immediately into warm water. The theory behind the contrasting temperatures is that the rapid dilation or opening followed by the constriction or narrowing of the blood vessels has the ability to pump inflammation out. The same effect can be produced using an ice pack and a heating pad. This form of therapy should not be used with decreased sensation problems, such as nerve damage.
  
  

The Difference Between Hot and Cold Compress

• The application of hot or cold compresses is an effective way to manage pain resulting from an injury. Typically, cold or ice is used directly after an injury. Heat is useful in the management of chronic issues.
  
  When an injury is sustained, the best option is to consult with a qualified medical professional, such as your primary physician or a licensed physical therapist, to assure the treatment of choice is the safest, most optimal choice to reduce your symptoms.