heat or cold therapy works by stimulating your body's own healing force. for instance heat dilates the blood vessels stimulates blood circulation and reduces muscle spasms. in addition heat alters the sensation of pain. you can use either dry heat -- such as heating pads or heat lamps -- or moist heat -- such as warm baths or heated wash cloths. conversely cold compresses reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels. while cold packs may be uncomfortable at first they can numb deep pain.
how do heat and cold therapies ease arthritis pain?