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A member asked:
Is ice or heat better when it comes to treating an injured back?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
Depends: If not ongoing re-injury & no chronic/other issues, cold recommended for first 48-72 hrs (no ice directly on skin, or will get cold injury--put in a towel/etc.). If arthritic, or ongoing work/injury occurring, heat may feel better, but only while on it. (don't mix heat-rubs with heating pads, they can cause burns). If severe, prolonged (>5days), or recurrent, see a dr.
Answered 1/20/2013
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