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Hot or Cold therapy?

CarlaMomOf4
CarlaMomOf4 Posts: 138 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
New workout caused extremel stiff sore upper legs and thighs. 2 days later, trying to loosen up and find some relief. Tried stretching it out, foam rolling, tried an ice cold then hot bath this morning, Advil and now onto experimenting with Hot Rub Analgesic cream and Ice Cold Gel. Which works best? Why the difference? Any thoughts or ideas you use? Newbie here, educate me on the differences please....

Worst part... I have a 5k obstaclerace tmorrow. Rookie mistake trying something new the week before a run.I know, I kow.

Replies

  • Cherimoose
    Cherimoose Posts: 5,208 Member
    Warmth increases blood flow, so it speeds healing & improves flexibility. But i don't think creams will do much to raise muscle temperature - try a hot bath. Light exercise, like bodyweight squats, often helps with soreness.

    If you have a race tomorrow, i'd eat in a slight surplus today and get plenty of sleep.

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