Alternating heat and ice can help treat sore muscles and joint pain

Apply three minutes of heat, followed by one minute of ice to the affected area. This technique forces blood in and out of the capillaries bringing nutrition to the affected muscles and flushing waste out of the affected area. You can use this technique 1 – 3 times in succession, then repeat it every few hours if desired.  A good form of heat to use is hot towels. You can wet three hand towels, wring them out, then heat them in a microwave until hot. It does not take long to heat the towels so use caution not to overheat them.  An ice pack works great for the icing part.  Remember never put ice directly next to the skin, even with this procedure.

If your feet or ankles (or hands/wrists) are sore you can use a big bucket of hot water and a big bucket of ice water. Dip your foot in the hot water for three minutes then in the cold water for one minute. Always end in the cold and don’t make the heat so hot that you burn yourself! Always use common sense. If you have any serious medical condition, are in poor health, or have any diagnosed condition effecting the area (such as tendonitis, arthritis, etc.), consult with a medical professional before performing any self therapy.