Heat or cold therapy works by stimulating your body's own healing force. For instance, heat expands the blood vessels, stimulates blood circulation, and reduces muscle spasms. In addition, heat alters the sensation of pain. You can use either dry heat -- such as heat packs or heat laps -- or moist heat -- such as warm baths or heated wash cloths.
Conversely, cold compresses reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels. While cold packs may be uncomfortable at first, they can numb deep pain.
Source: www.about.com
-Abby
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