Cold and hot therapies can be effective for a short duration in the relief of pain. Cold therapy is effective in inflammation- when the neck or back was initially injured and inflammation is expected. Hot therapy works when there is significant muscle spasm as this will increase circulation. Either therapy can burn the skin (cold with frostbite) so great care needs to be taken in use of these modalities.
Dr. Donald Corenman answers patient inquiries at his Vail, Colorado practice. For more information on spine, neck and back treatments, please contact Dr. Corenman at 970-479-5895.
