Hot vs cold packs: Which one should you use and when

On the other hand, cold packs are used as part of cryotherapy, which can come in the form of a water bottle filled with cold water, a pad cooled in the freezer, or cool water. “They provide a cooling effect to a localised area to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling,” she told indianexpress.com.

Highlighting the same, Dr Rebecca Pinto, a physiotherapist and nutritionist, wrote on Instagram, “If you have had any recent injury, this is when you use an ice pack, which causes vasoconstriction that helps reduce any kind of swelling or inflammation. However, if you have an old injury, that is when you use a hot pack. It helps increase blood supply in a particular area causing the body to heal faster.”

 

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Explaining the mechanism used in both, Dr Sheetal Rane, Head- Physiotherapy, Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai said, “Application of heat to body causes vasodilation, or opening up of the blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow to the affected area. The increased blood flow promotes healing by washing away the metabolic waste gathered around the painful tissue, whereas cold packs cause vasoconstriction or narrowing of blood vessels.”

Knowing when to use a hot or cold pack depends on the type of injury or condition being treated. (Source: Freepik)

Further, Dr Kandarp Vidyarthi, Senior Consultant Orthopaedics, Paras Health, Gurugram shared that knowing when to use a hot or cold pack depends on the type of injury or condition being treated.

“Cold packs are most effective during the initial stages (first 48-72 hours) of an acute injury, such as sprains, strains or bruises. It is beneficial for managing inflammatory conditions like arthritis, tendonitis or bursitis.”

Meanwhile, hot packs are generally more suitable for chronic conditions, such as muscle stiffness or chronic pain. “They are effective in relieving muscular aches, tension or spasms as they promote muscle relaxation, improve flexibility and provide soothing relief. Moreover, applying a hot pack before exercise, physical therapy, or stretching can help warm up muscles, increase circulation and prepare the body for movement,” he said.

Concluding, Dr Vidyarthi noted that it’s crucial to listen to your body and seek professional advice if you’re unsure about which therapy to use or if you have any underlying medical conditions.

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