When to use Heat for Muscle Pain

If there is inflammation then use cold(ice). Heat will agravate it if there is inflammation. If there is no inflammation and you are dealing with stiff or sore muscles then use heat.

Athletes will often use heat for different reasons. One, is to increase blood flow or increase the motion of joint tissue before exercise. Also, heat is perfect for tight muscles or cramps.

For these purposes use no more than 15-20 minutes at a time. And use a thin cloth of some sort over the skin as the heat pack, although it will not burn the skin, can get pretty uncomfortable.

Stiffness of the muscles in the lower back if not caused by inflammation can be relieved with a heat pack. Generally, chronic pain like this is not caused by inflammation.