![]() ![]() A cold compress for swelling brings relief when applied right away to an injury like an ankle sprain. How do you know when to use a cold compress instead of a warm one? The first guideline is the cause of the pain. Using a gel pack that is frozen in the freezer.Using an instant chemical cold pack that activates by squeezing the pack.Wrapping a bag of frozen vegetables (peas work well) in a washcloth.Placing cubed ice in a plastic bag and wrap in a washcloth.Like the warm compress, you can purchase a cold compress or make a cold compress at home. A cold compress should be applied immediately after an injury or when a joint becomes inflamed. Cold temperatures also numb injured tissues, reducing pain. When a cold compress is applied, the blood vessels contract which reduces localized inflammation and swelling. One of the benefits of a warm compress used every couple of hours is that heat can penetrate to the underlying muscles. Some of the medical conditions treated with the application of warm compresses include osteoarthritis, back muscle strain, tendonitis, fibromyalgia, boils and headaches. Apply the warm compress several times a day for best results. ![]() People apply a hot compress after an injury, but applying heat before strenuous activity can relax muscles and ligaments to minimize the chance of aggravating a chronic injury or incurring muscle soreness. When a medical condition like diabetes exists because skin sensation may be reduced, meaning you are subject to a burn if the warm compress is too hot and left on the skin too long.Wait for at least four hours to apply heat and 48 hours for an injury. Immediately after vigorous exercise because the blood flow is already high.When there is a skin condition like eczema, which can be triggered by heat. ![]()
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