Often as a physical therapist, I am asked, is heat good for a broken bone? The application of heat depends on the stage of healing of the bone, and the status of the surrounding soft tissue. Image of Is Heat Good for a Broken Bone
If you want to learn more about fractures, go to The Effect of Heat on the Healing of Fractures. This study showed an increase in callus formation of the bone when using heat to help the fracture heal.
Image of a fracture
Ice and heat have contrasting effects on the inflammation of the site of injury. So, is heat or ice good for a broken bone? Applying ice to the site results in the constriction of blood vessels, reducing circulation and swelling. It may also be effective in reducing pain.
Applying heat would increase circulation to the injury site, and bring about the inflammatory properties that aim to heal the tissues. Moreover, heat can reduce muscle stiffness, and encourage movement. Is heat good for the healing of a broken bone? The answer is yes in the later stages of healing.
So, is heat good for a broken bone? The answer is to use heat in the remodeling stage of bone healing.
Ice or Heat for Shoulder injury pain
The concept of using Ice or heat for a broken bone is similar to using either with shoulder pain. With a fresh injury, ice is typically helpful to manage inflammation, swelling, and pain. Later in the recovery process, heat may be helpful to increase mobility and motion.
The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute is Northeast Florida's largest and most respected Orthopedic Practice. We have offices throughout the area and 12 Rehabilitation Clinics for your convenience. If you think you have a broken bone or any other injury, JOI offers ASAP Fracture and Injury Care to get you treated quickly.
The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute will continue to monitor the latest developments of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), we are committed to protecting the health and safety of our patients, families and caregivers. To read more about our safety measures go to JOI4U. JOI & JOI Rehab, encourages all patients to wear a mask to their appointment. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, including fever, cough or shortness of breath, should contact 904-JOI-2000 prior to your scheduled appointment. In an effort to adhere to the national social distancing request, please do not bring family members to your appointment unless they are needed for translation or transportation. You can also complete all of your new patient paperwork from home. To request registration paperwork electronically, click HERE. Please read this article: https://www.joionline.net/library/show/4-cardio-workouts-you-can-do-with-an-injured-leg/
If you would like to schedule an appointment with a JOI Orthopedic/Fracture Specialist, Call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online, or click the link below.
By: Genesis Villanueva, Physical Therapist JOI Rehab
Click HERE to watch our online scheduling video.