Arthritis often causes painful and swollen joints. The symptoms of arthritis can prevent you from exercising, which is a beneficial part of your treatment program. While there are many pain medications available, they often have side effects. However, you can also use heat and ice treatments for your arthritis. Using heat and ice can help you to manage your symptoms, so that you can continue to exercise and remain active.
Heat Therapy
Using heat can help to reduce muscle spasms, joint stiffness and muscle tightness. Heat is best used right before any exercise or activity to help loosen tight joints and muscles. The heat opens the blood vessels and increases circulation which can promote healing.
Forms of Heat Therapy
Heat therapy can be administered through a heating pad, heat wrap or warm bath or shower. Using an electric blanket and placing clothes in a dryer before wearing them can help. Also try wetting a face cloth, placing it in a microwave safe bag and heating it for one to two minutes.
When Not to Use Heat Therapy
Do not apply heat to areas of the skin that are damaged. Heat should only be applied for 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid using heat if you have rheumatoid arthritis and you are having a flare up. Heat can increase the level of swelling and inflammation.
Cold Therapy
Cold therapy helps to reduce inflammation and swelling. The cold constricts the blood vessels and allows the area to rest. Cold therapy also numbs the area and reduces sensations of pain.
Forms of Cold Therapy
You can buy cold packs in the store that are instant--you just hit them and they become cold. There are also packs that you can place in the freezer. A less expensive version is to keep a bag of frozen vegetables, such as peas, in your freezer to use.
Use Cold Therapy
Always place a towel between the ice and your skin. Do not use cold therapy on areas with open wounds or sores. Use care with cold therapy on areas where there is reduced circulation. Cold therapy should only be applied for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
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