Cold and Hot Therapy Repair

Heat therapy and cold therapy are used to treat aches in damaged muscles and joints. These methods are used together to treat a variety of conditions, from arthritis to an injured muscle.

There are many methods of applying cold therapy—including (but not limited to) applying a cold compress or ice pack to the injury, or submerging it in cold water. The cold decreases bloodflow, which reduces inflammation. Cold therapy can also reduce pain from a migraine.

Heat increases bloodflow, which promotes muscle relaxation and can provide pain relief. Heat therapy can be administered through safe methods, including a hot water bath, paraffin wax submersion, or a hot pad.

Medical News Today—Heat and Cold Treatment: Which is Best?

Healthline—Treating Pain with Heat and Cold

Wikipedia—Cryotherapy