You just tweaked your back lifting something heavy 10 minutes ago. What should you reach for first?
- A) A hot bath
- B) A cold pack
- C) A warm compress
- D) Nothing, just sit still
For acute injuries (the first 48 hours), cold is king. It constricts blood vessels to reduce swelling and numbs the pain. Save the heat for after the initial swelling has subsided to help loosen the muscle back up!


