Few injuries will take you out like back pain. Your back is central to your body, and nearly every movement affects it. So it only make sense that, when your back hurts, doing anything hurts.
Many products on the market today capitalize on the common practice of using ice and heat for back pain, but they are ultimately only topical ointments and do not reach as deep as the real thing. Here is what you need to know about using ice and heat for back pain.
When And How Long Should I Ice?
If you have an injury, it is best to immediately ice it within five minutes. When the body has an injury, it will send fluids to the area, which results in swelling. Swelling can sometimes cause further injury, causing more swelling, and the harmful cycle continues on.
Ice cools the area, causing the body to send blood to the area, which will clean out the excess swelling and toxins, helping the body to heal. Ice should be applied for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for 24 to 48 hours after the injury.
When Should I Apply Heat?
At this point, the area will likely be stiff from the ice and lack of movement. It is now a good idea to apply heat. As with ice, the heat will cause the body to send blood to the area in an attempt to cool it down, which will help heal the injury faster.
It will also cause the muscle to relax, easing pain and stiffness. It is also a good idea to do appropriate exercises and stretches to further assist in the healing process.
If you simply suffer from frequent back pain, such as sciatica, alternating ice and heat on the area may work to shock the body and break the pain cycle.
See A Chiropractor If Pain Persists
Ultimately, only a professional can tell if something is seriously wrong with your back. In these serious instances, simply icing and applying heat to the area will not suffice. TalkLocal can find a qualified professional in your area for free to help provide you with a diagnosis. Our website is user-friendly and cuts the work out of the search process.
