When you have sore joints or muscles, there are a few things that you can do to get rid of inflammation and ease the pain including taking an over the counter medication like ibuprofen, resting, and icing. As an all-natural way to combat pain and inflammation, however, icing is one of the best things that Dr. John Moore encourages all of his patients to do after working out, having surgery, and getting injured. When it comes to icing, you have two options: having an ice bath or using an ice pack. So, what is the best option and which one will give you the fastest joint relief? Read on to learn more.
Ice Bath
If you have a knee injury, shin splints, or even an ankle injury, we encourage our patients to sit in an ice bath. By encompassing your legs, knees, and ankles, an ice bath is a fast way to combat inflammation and pain. To take an ice bath, fill your bathtub with about four inches of really cold water and then add about a bucket full of ice. Then, slowly submerge either the lower part of your body or just your ankles. Try to sit in there for as long as you can stand it— hopefully more than one second. Repeat about two to three times.
Ice Pack
If you just have a small injury or joint issues around an area of your body like your wrist, then you can just use a small ice pack. When using an ice pack, try to use a gel one so that it can conform to your injury. The more the ice pack covers, the better it will be at getting rid of the inflammation on your joints.
Icing your joints and muscles is one of the best things you can do for your body. Whether you choose to take an ice bath or use an ice pack, you will notice a significant decrease in pain and inflammation. To learn more about what you can do for your joint and muscle health, contact Dr. John Moore today and schedule an appointment.
