To Ice or not to Ice?

Back pain is one of the most common health conditions, affecting people of all age groups. Back pain has several causes, and it can be debilitating, affecting one’s quality of life.
One of the most asked questions we get in the clinic from our patients is, how to know whether to apply ICE or HEAT? And knowing when to use either is crucial.
We want to help you understand the benefits and disadvantages of using Ice or Heat for back pain and provide recommendations for their use.

Generally, the application of ICE is, recommended for acute back pain, that is, immediate back pain or symptoms that started within the last week. Frequently acute back pain is accompanied by swelling and inflammation. Using ice helps to reduce inflammation and swelling, which in turn alleviates pain. Ice is also effective in reducing nerve pain, as it lowers the temperature of the affected area and slows down nerve impulses. It is important to note that ice should not be applied for more than 10 to 15 minutes at a time and should be applied with a cloth or towel to prevent direct contact with the skin, which can cause an ice burn.
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On the other hand, using HEAT is recommended for chronic back pain if characterized by stiffness and muscle tension. Blood flow is, increased by the application of heat to an area. The heat then helps to reduce muscle tension and stiffness. Heat also helps to alleviate pain by increasing the temperature of the affected area, which, in turn, improves the elasticity of the muscles.
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The decision to use ICE or HEAT depends on the type and stage of back pain.
Use ICE for acute back pain accompanied by inflammation and swelling.
Use HEAT for chronic back pain characterized by muscle tension and stiffness.