Sports medicine is an important resource for athletes struggling to recover from an injury, reduce pain, prevent overuse injuries, or begin a new training plan. Athletes in Westfield, NJ, should look no further than Twin Boro Physical Therapy to get started today.
When the body must withstand forces above what is normal in daily life, sports medicine can help prepare you to not only withstand these stresses but grow stronger. Twin Boro Physical Therapy employs highly experienced physical therapists with specializations in sports medicine that can provide athletes with the most effective road to recovery.
With 51 locations across 16 counties, we are the largest private physical therapy practice in the state of New Jersey. We combine expert experience, state-of-the-art methods, and a dedication to the latest evidence-based research to provide our patients with high-quality care.
Treating a Sports Injury: When to Use Ice vs Heat
Ice and heat are two of the most accessible treatments for injuries. It’s important to treat injuries early to reduce swelling, calm inflammation, and minimize the risk of further damage. When it comes to deciding between whether to use ice or heat, there are a few things to keep in mind.
One general rule of thumb is that ice should be used for recent injuries (acute injuries) within the first 72 hours, while heat is the better choice for soothing muscular injuries or reducing chronic pain. Either way, each method should only be used for 10-20 minutes at a time with lots of rest time in between ice and heat sessions.
All About Ice
The main purpose of ice is to minimize swelling. We recommend using an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas (or any vegetable or fruit you have available). Try to avoid direct contact with the skin to avoid any frostbite or burns. A thin dish towel or double layer of paper towels can shield the skin well. If you don’t have a layer to put in between the skin and ice then a shorter period of icing is an okay alternative.
All About Heat
The primary use of heat treatment is to stimulate blood flow and increase circulation. This can help reduce stiffness and decrease the swelling of long-term injuries. Heat is fine to apply right before exercise, while ice should not be applied before exercise. We recommend using heat pads or even a hot towel to warm up the affected areas.
Regardless of which method you choose, make sure to pay attention to how your symptoms respond. If your symptoms worsen after using a certain treatment, try the other and see how your body responds. Everybody is different!
Ready to Begin?
If you think sports medicine may be helpful for you but you’re not sure how to get started, we are here to help. Our experts can provide you with a complimentary consultation to design the best treatment plan based on your condition and long-term goals. If you live or work in Westfield, NJ, reach out to us at Twin Boro Physical Therapy. Call us at 908-233-1222 or visit our website.
