We naturally think of ice in the winter and heat in the summer. That usually applies to the weather, but it’s a different concept when it comes to treating injuries.

When I see patients with a chronic type of injury, I’ll make home care suggestions to apply heat before they stretch (which increases the blood flow to the injured area), then do the stretch (which I’ve previously given) and then ice afterwards (to decrease any inflammation).

• apply ice, for the first 24 hours
• apply contrast of warm and cool, for the next 24 to 72 hours
• use heat, for the 72+ hours

• Tendonitis
• Tennis elbow
• Migraines, as the ice pack is placed at the back of the neck
• Acute strains, sprains, and bruises

• Backache
• Insomnia
• Digestive issues
• Joint problems

• Muscle, tendon, ligament, disc or bone damage
• Skin problems
• Digestive disorder

• Chronic scar tissue
• Arthritic joints
• For RMT’s overworked hands

• Circulation issues
• Muscles aches and pains

See your doctor if the pain persists or doesn’t go away within a day or two.
See your therapist if treatment is recommended.