How Effective Is Heat or Cold for Relieving Osteoarthritis Symptoms?

Thermotherapy involves the application of heat, and cryotherapy involves the application of cold, to joints affected by osteoarthritis for the purpose of relieving osteoarthritis symptoms. Arthritis patients want to know:

• Which is more effective -- heat or cold?
• How should heat or cold be used for the best results?
• How does thermotherapy or cryotherapy work to relieve osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis patients often try heat or cold applications to relieve symptoms. Thermotherapy or cryotherapy treatment is easy and inexpensive compared to other osteoarthritis treatment options. If you wish to try cold or heat therapy, discuss it with your doctor. Discuss which you should try and have your doctor give you specific directions for how long and how often to use cold or heat. Read more in How Effective Is Heat or Cold for Relieving Osteoarthritis Symptoms?

Related Resources:

• Hot / Cold Gel Packs
• Moist / Dry Heating Pads
• How to Manage Osteoarthritis Pain
• Ice or Heat - Which is More Effective for Arthritis Pain?

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