Something hurts. You feel sore. Ouch! What do you use, ice or heat? That question is pretty simple to answer. Personally, I prefer heat since it feels much nicer than cold, don't you think? However, there are certain basic guidelines to follow about when use which temperature. For instance, cold is best for a fresh injury and/or inflammation. Cold helps restrict the blood vessels and brings the swelling of the tissue down. Heat is best for muscle soreness or an ongoing, chronic condition. With general pain, cold can help numb it, but heat soothes it. So, what happens if you you use both hot and cold? As I said, with a new injury (such as a twisted ankle or bumbing into something), you will want to use ice. However, after the swelling goes down, as well as with any chronic conditions, alternating hot and cold can help to speed healing! Alternate with heat and ice for 5 minutes each. Also, go with how you feel. If cold feels better, use that; if heat helps you feel better, use that! If you decide to go with one or another, use the heat or ice for 15 minutes or as long as you can tolerate it, but not more than 15 minutes at a time and not more than once an hour. Remember, check your skin so you don't burn or freeze yourself! ![Wink [;)]](/emoticons/emotion-5.gif)