Foot injury? Find out whether to use ice or heat to get better

Have you hurt your foot and don't know how to treat your injury? In this edition of the Dispotech blog, we’ll show you how to get better using the benefits of heat and cold.

Have you hurt your foot and don't know how to treat your injury?

Today on the Dispotech blog, we’ll show you how to get better using the benefits of heat and cold. In an article read on footdoc.org, we found tips from specialised podiatrists on the situations in which to use an ice pack and on the other hand, a hot pack for foot pain. Have a great read!

If your foot hurts due to an unexpected injury or perhaps you suffer from chronic pain, you might not know what to do to get better.

Is it better to treat an injury with ice or heat? It all depends on the type of injury that has taken place. If you have doubts on the nature of the pain or are seeking reassurance, we recommend consulting your doctor or a podiatrist, who are both professionals able to give you a clear explanation and the right therapy to follow.

How much ice should be used for a foot injury

Cold therapy and ice packs are indicated after a sudden injury to relieve acute pain such as from a sprain or strain.

The action of ice reduces the blood flow and can help reduce swelling and inflammation. According to experienced podiatrists, ice also acts to reduce pain and post-workout fatigue.

Treatments in which the benefits of cold are utilised should absolutely not be used to treat chronic pain, aching muscles, or joint stiffness. For everything else, you may use ice in the following forms:

* disposable ice pack;

* icy gel pack;

* ice spray;

* ice baths in a tub with water and ice;

* cold showers;

* water bottles frozen in the freezer;

* cryotherapy

How much heat should be used for a foot injury

In contrast to cold and ice therapy, heat has a muscle-relaxant function: it relaxes tense, sore muscles through an increased blood flow to the area in pain.

Using heat sources is helpful for treating chronic pain and injuries that unfortunately have persisted for a long time. Heat is absolutely not recommended on areas of the body affected by swelling and inflammation: it could worsen the situation and add other symptoms. Heat should also never be used on open wounds or if you suffer from diabetes.

Apply your hot pack in the form of:

* disposable hot pack;

* heated gel pack;

* heating pad;

* towel with hot steam;

* hot bath/hot shower;

* sauna.

Can hot and ice packs be used alternately?

Yes, cold and hot packs can be alternated for some injuries. However, it is necessary to talk to a doctor or podiatrist first to assess the physical situation and agree on the best treatment to safeguard the patient's general health.

What do you think about this article? Write the Dispotech team!