First-aid and its accompanying benefits have been introduced to people as early as we step in at school. The sheer importance of knowing what to do in a specific situation that concerns health and wellness is a necessity to everyone. We have been acquainted with the basics of treating minor wounds, soothing accidental burns or even setting broken bones.
The scope of first aid procedures, if not huge, is something that a person can use in situations when deemed necessary. We have been oriented with the contents of a first-aid kit, which is comprised of gauze, bandages and everything in between. Also, we have surely seen hot/cold packs sitting in between Band-Aids.
With all due respect to modern science and how we’ve handled our first-aid classes, are we truly aware of the proper use of hot and cold compresses? If not, then don’t hesitate to read on.
Treating pain on a specific body part involves meticulous and accurate use of tools and medication to reduce agony. While there are tons of medications that can be orally ingested, some kinds of pain still need the help of hot or cold packs for more physical and accurate relief. Both methods have been deemed effective by millions, but what we need to ensure is the general benefit that can be gained from using a hot and cold compresses.
While the effects might be similar, both hot and cold compresses must be used for specific functions which we should be educated about. Hot and cold compresses are the best for non-invasive and non-surgical pain relief in specific joints and muscles, for new and recurring injuries and for faster healing of bruises, scalds and minor burns.
Hot compress and the heat they bring are responsible for opening up clogged blood vessels that will then stimulate the blood flow and oxygen supply in your body. When a hot compress is used for a specific pain, it can highly reduce aching and loosen up tightly-knotted muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is also widely known that heat can significantly reduce muscle spasms, alleviate pain on bruised muscles and promote flexibility.
A hot compress is best applied if you’re experiencing observable muscle pains and stiff joints. Applying heat directly to the skin is not advisable as it may aggravate the problem by contracting burns. A hot compress must be wrapped in a thin towel before directing it to the affected area and must not be used for 20 minutes straight. Also, tolerance for hot surfaces must also be measured before carrying-out the said procedure.
A hot compress must also be avoided for people with diabetes and poor blood circulation, or on open wounds and stitches. This routine should also be approved by your therapist if you wish to use the method for a long time.
Contrary to what a hot compress does, a cold compress is slows down, if not halts blood circulation over a specific painful area. Reduction of swelling and pain relief is expected when using the frigid method for bruised areas, inflammation and swollen nodes.
Usually, a cold compress uses ice packs, patches and ice gels. Ideally, a cold compress must be used 24-48 hours after the injury and unlike hot compress procedures, it can be used 20 minutes straight with 10 minute gaps. The therapy from a cold compress is effective in general alleviation of pain from broken and fractured bones.
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