Ice vs Heat When Used For Massage

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine exactly which therapy you should use for 
which kind of injury. Both heat and cold can be very beneficial for all sort of soreness 
and injuries, but the wrong treatment at a sensitive time can lengthen the time it takes to 
heal, or even aggravate or inflame the injury to a further extent than it already was 
before the treatment. This article will be geared towards showing you when ice or heat 
should be used for massage.

When To Use Cold

Cold therapy is for injuries that have happened in the last 72 hours. Muscle strain, or 
sprains leave bruising, and this usually means that there is some amount of bleeding 
which can result in inflammation and swelling. Cold causes the blood vessels to 
constrict, which can help to slow bleeding and reduce swelling. This can also reduce 
muscle spasms. Ice can also be used to control the pain and swelling from chronic 
conditions, but it should only be used after the activity. 

Don’t Use Cold

You shouldn’t really use ice or cold therapy in areas where you have poor circulation. 
People with Diabetes, elderly people, or small children are all at the highest risk of injury 
when using cold treatments. If you have a heart condition, avoid placing ice packs on 
the left shoulder. 

When To Use Heat 

Heat therapy is best used for chronic pain and stiffness that isn’t accompanied by 
inflammation. The heat can be delivered in a variety of ways including water bottles, 
heating pads, and heat stones just to name a few. Heat can also be applied in pools 
and baths. The skin of the area should be checked frequently, and the heat shouldn’t be 
too hot. Too much heat can cause damage and scalding. Never leave heat lamps or 
heating pads on while sleeping. Heat should only be applied for 15 - 20 minute intervals. 

Don’t Use Heat

Warmth and heat can increase blood flow to the heated area, so heat is never a good 
idea for an injury that is still showing signs of heavy inflammation. Never use heat 
before any sort of vigorous exercise. This can loosen muscles in a way that makes 
certain exercise routines dangerous. If an area persists with redness, do not use heat 
and contact your doctor. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
