Hot or Cold Therapy
Hot and Cold Therapy has been a popular remedy for muscle pain and injury. Heat works best in relaxing the joints and muscles, while cold can constrict the blood vessels and reduce inflammation. The patient can use both techniques to alleviate heel pain.
There are simple ways to practice cold therapy at home. For example, an ice pack or cold compress application for 10-15 minutes can provide instant relief and reduce swelling. A patient may also try rolling a bottle with icy cold water using the arches of his feet to lessen the muscle tension. A cold foot bath may do the trick if this is not enough to numb the pain. However, direct contact with low temperatures can cause frostbite or skin irritation. So, limiting the exposure to a few minutes is best, and reapply after giving the skin a break.
Hot therapy, on the other hand, helps reduce the stiffness of the plantar fascia ligament. It makes massage and stretching more effective and relaxing. Warm massage balls and towels can be used as a hot compress. A patient may also use heat rubs and wear thick socks to keep the heels warm.
