When should heat therapy be used in injury treatment?

Heat therapy is appropriately used when swelling has subsided following an injury. This is important because applying heat too early, especially within the first 48 hours after an injury, can exacerbate swelling and inflammation. During the acute phase of an injury, the body's natural responses include increased blood flow to the area which can lead to more swelling and pain. Heat therapy, on the other hand, promotes increased circulation and relaxes muscles, making it suitable for use when the body's inflammatory response has peaked and there is less swelling. By using heat at the right time, it can effectively enhance the healing process, relieve muscle tightness, and ease discomfort.