try to use moist heat or ice packs at least twice a day for the best relief from pain and stiffness. according to the american college of rheumatology 5-minute to 10-minute ice massages applied to a painful area within the first 48 hours of pain onset can help relieve pain. so can heat which relaxes the muscles. heat should be used for pains that last longer than 48 hours.
how often should i use moist heat or ice for arthritis pain?