Hot Therapy or Cold Therapy with a Chronic Condition

A chronic condition refers to one that is long lasting and persistant. In most medical terms it is a condition or pain that lasts longer than 3 months. The opposite to chronic is acute (short term).


An example of an acute injury is a sprained ankle. Once the injury occurs the body experiences acute symptoms of swelling and pain. Injuries such as these require cold pack treatments to constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling. If over time and repeated injuries occur to the ankle from over-use or a sporting event the injury can become chronic.
Once a chronic injury develops you can find relief by using both ice and heat therapies. If you are experiencing a chronic injury (muscle stiffness, spasms) in an area of your body it is best to use heat therapy prior to an activity that irritates chronic injuries such as muscle strains. This will help the muscles have the proper blood flow and flexability to withstand the activity. Cold pack treatments are used on chronic conditions after an activity that has irritated the condition. The cold helps to relieve swelling and pain.
So remember, if you have a chronic nagging condition be aware of heating those muscles up before embarking on an activity that might irritate or inflame the area and be sure to add a little cold therapy afterwards to ward off any swelling or pain.

These treatments can go a long way in eliminating the pain associated with many of lifes daily activities. Always remember to consult with your health care provider on the best length of treatment for your specific condition.