Should I soak my sore feet in hot or cold water?
Asked 4 years ago
I've been experiencing really bad foot pain for the past couple of weeks and have been told that I should soak my feet in the water. Does anyone know if I should use hot or cold water and if it even makes a difference?
Nikhil Bauer
Sunday, October 10, 2021
Because ice constricts blood vessels and swelling, cold therapy should generally be used for acute (1-2 weeks) injuries and foot pain. Heat, on the other hand, has the opposite effect (applied at more than 4-6 weeks). Applying heat to a specific area increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, and allows for a greater range of motion. I would recommend custom orthotics to correct foot misalignment and reduce pressure during for long term pain relief. Nonetheless, get well soonBecause ice constricts blood vessels and swelling, cold therapy should generally be used for acute (1-2 weeks) injuries and foot pain. Heat, on the other hand, has the opposite effect (applied at more than 4-6 weeks). Applying heat to a specific area increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, and allows for a greater range of motion. I would recommend custom orthotics to correct foot misalignment and reduce pressure during for long term pain relief. Nonetheless, get well soon!
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