From playing sports to carrying the laundry downstairs, there are all kinds of ways we can injure our ankles. If you have incurred an injury, how do you know whether to put heat or ice to help your injury heal faster? Our Silver Spring ankle specialist is here with answers!
Our Silver Spring Ankle Specialist Explains the Difference Between Heat & Ice
When Should You Use Ice?
There are two main factors to watch for that signal when you should be using ice on an injury, explains our ankle specialist in Silver Spring, MD.
- Is it a new injury? Ice will be most useful when in injury is fresh. It can help to mitigate your body's response to the immediate damage.
- Is there any swelling? Swelling is caused by bleeding in your ankle's tissues. The cold temperature of ice will slow down this bleeding, helping to reduce swelling in your ankle.
Ice can also help to reduce some of the pain or muscle spasms caused by your injury.
When Should You Use Heat?
Heat works better on chronic injuries, especially when you are preparing to exercise or engage in physical activity. Heat will help to improve blood circulation, loosen up your tissues, and relax your muscles. By using heat before you exercise, you may also be able to reduce your risk of re-injury to your ankle.
NEVER Use Heat If…
- Don't use heat on brand new injuries.
- Don’t use heat shortly after exercise or other physically exertive activity.
- NEVER use heat if you have any swelling, because the heat can make the swelling worse by increasing bleeding in your tissues.
Do You Have Questions About Using Heat or Ice? Ask Our Silver Spring Ankle Specialist Today!
Our ankle specialist in Silver Spring, MD, would be happy to answer any questions and help you resolve your new or chronic ankle injury. contact office for an appointment today!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office near Silver Spring, MD, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
