Today I would like to talk about Moist Heat and icing, and when to use both of these. So when we have an acute injury, ice is the first choice. We have lots of swelling and tissue inflammation initially, so we want to use Ice, which will vasoconstrict the blood vessels, and slow down the bleeding/swelling. When we use ice therapy, I prefer to use a gel ice pad that can be left in the freezer. Frozen veggies or popcorn kernels can also work if you need something quick.
Apply the ice pack for about 15 minutes two to three times daily, until swelling is better, or about a week or two after the initial injury. This also helps with pain initially, by taking the pressure and swelling down.
It is important not to do moist heat too quickly after a joint injury, as heat will vasodilate and increase blood flow to the affected area. We don’t want to do this when we have an initial injury with swelling present. After the first 2 weeks, we can start the transition to moist heat.
Now when applying an ice pack, a nice tip is to wrap the ice pack with warm wash cloth. This is a nice gradual cooling, instead of the initial cold shock. Your pup will thank you!
After 2 weeks, we will be switching to moist heat. To make your own moist heat, simply fill a sock with white rice (I double layer mine for washing). This makes a nice moist heat when you warm it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Wrap in a towel to make sure we don’t burn our pups.
Moist heat is different that dry heat, like an electric pad. Moist heat gets better penetration into the tissues, and is a very good pain relief. It opens up the area, so that our supplements can penetrate the area. Our knee does not have a great blood supply, so it is good to help with moist heat as much as we can. Do this 2-3 times daily for 15 minute intervals.
I like to do this before we walk, or start physical therapy. It relaxes and makes the knee comfortable. Do this process for up to 12 months, especially with meniscus tears. If you pup is sore after a walk, you can also do icing after the walk as well. Please let us know if you have any questions! You can contact us through our contact form or check out our Facebook Page for more information.
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