Massage FAQ

This week the most frequent question that came up was "when should I use heat and when should I use ice?" This is commonly asked because chiropractors and massage practitioners alike often recommend use of one or both. So when is which appropriate?

Ice works as a vasoconstrictor, meaning it makes your vessels smaller. This decreases inflammation and prevents excessive blood flow to an area. Ice is wonderful for areas that are red, raised and warm to the touch. These specifics let you know that an area is inflammed, whether from bumping into something or from an internal inflammatory agent, like a food you ate.

Heat works as a vasodilator, meaning it enlarges your vessles. While it might seem counterintuitive to increase blood flow based on the above reasoning, there are times when that is exactly what is needed. When you increase blood flow, you also bring healing nutrients to the area being heated. This speeds up healing for a torn muscle or an area of high tension and adhesions.

Whether using heat or ice, it's optimal to use for 15 minutes followed by a 15 minute period off the skin. Feel free to repeat the process throughout the day. Remember to use a protective layer between the heat or ice and your skin.

More questions about hydrotherapy? Email dskidmore@soundchiropractic.com