Chronic back pain may be the result of conditions of slow-development, which cause a dull but steady ache from time to time. This kind of chronic pain can be caused due to the condition of spinal stenosis symptoms. This particular symptom is caused by the continuous overuse of a certain muscle or muscle group over a period of time.
This type of chronic and acute pain may be a result of lifting and twisting of muscles. The usage of heat or ice for back pain substantially helps relieve such pains. It is a very simple, economic and drug-free approach.
Heat therapy can be defined as the application of heat to the affected and inflamed area. This helps in the dilation of the blood vessels, thus promoting increased blood flow. Increase in the blood flow helps in the relaxation of sore and tightened muscles.
It also eliminates the lactic acid waste that builds up after intense physical exertion. Owing to its analgesic properties. It also has a psychological effect.
Heat therapy for back pain is said to be more effective than cold therapy for chronic back pain.
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There are different types of heat therapies available. Some of them include the use of:
Dry or moist heat packs can be applied for up to 8 hours or 2 hours respectively. However, it is said that moist heat packs are more effective in the reduction of back pain. The heat should be applied to the area for 20 minutes, at least 3 times a day.
Heat patches are highly effective in case of back pain. However, it is not only useful for backs. It can also be used for other sources of pain reliefs such as:
The application of heat patches on the neck, however, might provide relief in terms of spasms but might lead to headaches.
A study conducted in the year 2006 confirmed that patients with back pain, who are physically active and applied CLHT (Continuous Low Level Heat Wrap Therapy) experience lesser amount of back pain than those who do not(2).
CLHT treatments are scientifically proven to act more effectively in case of back pain than oral medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and analgesics. However, the effect of heat therapy varies according to the depth of the tissue that is affected by any kind of pain or injury.
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Cold therapy is quite the opposite of heat therapy. It reduces the blood flow to the affected area. This slows down the rate of inflammation, reducing the risk of swelling and tissue damage. Apart from the usual action, it also numbs the area, thus acting as an effective anesthetic.
Ice pack for back pain is pretty useful, especially after 48 hours of injury. Cold therapy includes the RICE process (rest, ice, compression, elevation). However, it is to be duly noted that the ice should not be directly applied to your affected back.
The cold therapy for back pain relief includes:
Ice should not be applied for the bony parts of the spinal column. In case of an ice massage, the ice is not to be directly applied to the skin for a long time. If applied, it should not stay in a single spot or place.
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Cold therapy is not only applicable to chronic back pain. It is also used to heal the following:
So what is better? Is it ice or heat for back pain?
Heat is not advisable to be used on a fairly newer injury, an open wound or if the person is feverish and has a high temperature. The temperature should be adjusted to a comfortable range.
Ice should not be used if the body is already cold. Application of ice on your back would only tense the muscles, making the pain worse and uncomfortable.
Individuals with chronic back pain must take his or her pain into account, with all the information available, which should help derive the best solution and treatment.