Treating Neck Pain | Ice or Heat?

Ice is best used to treat new, acute injuries. Ice calms down the injured tissues that are inflamed and swollen. The inflammatory process is a healthy and normal part of recovery and icing is a mild way to help reduce inflammation and pain.

However, ice can aggrivate muscle spasms and trigger points, which are often present in neck pain.

Moist heat is best used to treat an older or chronic injury. Heat causes the blood vessels to widen, bringing more blood to the injured tissues. Heat can also ease stiffness by making the tissues more supple.

If you experience pain or your condition begins to worsen, stop immediatly and consult a physician.