Although it is common to implement hot and cold therapy for injuries, evidence remains limited on which modality is best and when. For instance, an article in the World Journal of Clinical Cases indicates that anything that reduces inflammation, such as cold therapy, may actually delay healing. This is because the inflammation process plays a role in recovery itself.

While heat may provide short-term pain relief, the evidence for its overall effectiveness is also lacking.

Understanding the benefits, risks, and limitations of both hot and cold therapy is important. It is always best to get an opinion from a healthcare professional if needed.

While both cold and hot therapy are generally safe, some precautions should be taken. Injuries to the skin are possible.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, it is important to apply ice cautiously. Putting ice directly on the skin can cause tissue damage. Wrapping ice in a thin towel is advisable to protect your skin from injury from the ice. Apply the ice for short periods of about 10 to 20 minutes several times each day.

Similarly, it is important to exercise caution when applying heat therapy. Excess heat can damage the skin and further exacerbate an injury.

In addition, consider some of the general guidelines for using hot and cold therapy safely.

• Neither heat nor cold therapy should be used on an open wound.
• Avoid cold therapy if you have poor circulation unless directed by your doctor.
• Do not use heat therapy on an area with an infection unless instructed by your physician.
• Use either type of therapy with caution if you have nerve or sensory damage and have difficulty sensing temperatures on your skin.