Why Cold Should Be Used Before Heat for Injury

When you sustain an injury like a sprain, muscle pull or tear, or contusion (bruise), you may be confused about when to apply cold and when to apply heat, as well as the reasoning behind the timing of each of these therapies. There is a rhyme and reason to the order and mechanisms behind the application of cold and heat for injury.

Which to Apply First

Cold should always be used first and can be used on muscle strains or pulls, sprains, fractures, and contusions. Ice should be applied in conjunction with compression and elevation throughout the first 48-72 hours depending upon how long the swelling lasts.

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