When you first sprain your ankle, injure your elbow; turn your knee, etc... What will make you feel better? Heat or Ice? Within the first 3 days, rest, ice and elevate the injured limb. After 3 to 5 days, use whatever will help your symptoms.
Heat:
Relaxes tight muscles
Causes soft tissue to relax
Decreases pain caused by muscle tension or spasms
Increases circulation to the area
Helps those with muscle strain, spasms, and arthritis
ICE:
Decreases inflammation
Decreases pain
Decreases swelling
Decreases inflammation
Decreases pain
Decreases swelling
Do not apply for more than 20 minutes at a time! It could cause nerve damage. See your physician if you believe you broke something or symptoms last longer than 5 days with no change.
