Cold compress vs Hot compress What’s the difference.

Browse By

Injuries from exercise or sports It can range from a fall that causes bruising to different parts of the body, a sprained ankle, torn muscles or clashes that cause ligaments to bind or tear. Or the knee joint is swollen and bleeding, etc. Applying cold compress and hot compress according to the correct principles will initially help solve the problem.

Cold compresses 

help cause blood vessels to contract. This results in less blood flowing to the affected area. Help stop bleeding Reduce swelling and inflammation During the first 48 hours of a new injury or there is pain, swelling, red skin, and increased skin temperature in the injured area. Report by สมัคร ufabet

When should I use it.

  • When the injury begins or occurs, up to the first 48 hours of the injury, there is a fever, pain, swelling, redness, and an increased temperature of the skin in the injured area.

What symptoms should it be used for.

  • Should be used on areas that are experiencing acute inflammation or injury, such as sprained ankles, falls, swollen ankles, after orthopedic surgery such as knee and hip replacement surgery, falls, bruises, or new sports injuries.

How should I use it.

  • Use cold gel to compress the inflamed/injured area immediately after symptoms appear within the first 24-48 hours. Apply for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day.

Precautions for using cold compresses

  • Cold gel compresses should not be applied directly to the skin. Should be wrapped in a towel And you shouldn’t compress for more than 20 minutes as it may cause your skin to burn from the cold.
  • Should not be used in patients with sensory problems, diabetes, or those who are allergic to cold and easily get rashes.

Hot compresses 

Heat or raised tissue temperature. Can help stimulate blood vessels to expand. Increase blood circulation in that area Repairs injuries, helps relieve pain and relax muscles.

When should I use it.

  • A hot compress should be applied when returning from injury for 48 hours and after there is no swelling, redness, or heat in the injured area.

What symptoms should it be used for

  • Hot compresses should be used for chronic pain such as herniated disc problems, Office syndrome, muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and back, and joint pain. Stiffness/Arthritis from not moving for a long time Muscles are very tight, cramps, and menstrual cramps. or breast pain except gout and without pain, swelling, redness, heat, or signs of inflammation

How should I use it.

  • Use ready-made hot compress gel. or a hot water bag wrapping in a towel. The compress should be left on for 20-30 minutes and should not be so hot that it stings the skin. The optimum temperature should not exceed 45 degrees Celsius or a warm, comfortable feeling.

Precautions for using hot compresses

  • People who have problems with the nervous system, such as people with diabetes. Because there will be a defect in the perception of feelings.
  • Do not compress on areas that are bleeding or where there are open wounds.
  • Apply a hot compress when there is less inflammation and redness.
  • The temperature should be controll appropriately. It should not be too hot or not more than 45 degrees Celsius because too much heat may cause skin inflammation, blisters, redness and burns.
  • You should not compress for too long or too frequently.