Michimich.com - Ann Arbor Chiropractor Teaches You How to Apply Heat and Ice for Pain

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ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Michimich -- Should you use heat or ice for lower back pain? Which, when, and how?

There are 3 general rules:

If you suffer from an acute back injury, use only ice until acute pain begins to subside, no matter how many days it takes.
Once acute pain begins to subside, switch to a combination of moist heat and ice until the pain is gone.
For chronic back pain, use a combination of moist heat and ice.

Therapeutic Effect:

Ice = fights swelling and inflammation.

Moist heat = relaxes tight muscles and increases circulation. Combination of moist heat and ice = the best of both worlds, but make sure you always end with the ice.

Ice – The best way is to use a large frozen gel pack. They stay soft even when frozen, so it contours to the body. They don't leak, and you can reuse them over and over. The pack should be at least 6" X 8" to cover a big enough area.

Once your pack is cold, wrap it in a thin, dry towel and place it directly on the skin over the area that hurts. Apply for 15-20 minutes, but no longer than 20 minutes. Repeat 3 to 4 times per day during an acute flare up. You can also use ice cubes in a Ziploc bag, or even frozen vegetables.

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Moist Heat – The best way to apply heat is through microwaveable bean bags. These are also reusable. You can also spend extra time in the shower or bathtub with hot water on the affected area. Apply for 15-20 minutes, but no longer than 20 minutes. Repeat 3 to 4 times per day during an acute flare up.

Have you struggled with pain for years? Chiropractic in Ann Arbor (https://www.drthatcher.com/chiropractor/annarbor/heat-or-ice-for-lower-back-pain) can help! Schedule an appointment with Dr. Thatcher today!

About Thatcher Chiropractic & Laser: Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Thatcher Chiropractic & Laser's mission is to change lives by relieving pain. Dr. Bill Thatcher has been serving the Ann Arbor community in the same location for 36 years and is an expert using the Activator method of adjustment. Thatcher Chiropractic & Laser believes in fast, friendly, affordable care that takes walk-ins, has minimal paperwork, leverages the best technology, and treats their patients with love and respect. For attentive, compassionate care, visit https://www.drthatcher.com/