By default, if there is no input from the nervous system, that gate remains closed. However, when we experience pain, small nerve fibers the nerves that can sense pain synapse onto projection cells which travel to the brain. If there is more small fiber stimulation than typical, painless input, the gate will open and the brain will sense the pain. On the other hand, large fibers the nerves that sense general stimulation also work the same way.
However, if there is more large nerve fiber stimulation, it will close the gate to the brain blocking out all signals, including pain. For example, have you ever taken a hot bath or shower when you had a bad case of poison ivy or a itchy rash?
In short, the chemical properties of Icy Hot cannot penetrate deep enough into your muscles to cause any substantial healing, but they can provide a temporary relief by stimulating the nerves near your skin and blocking pain signals.
This being the case, Icy Hot can be an effective relief from a short term strain or tweak. Rather it is simply blocking or distracting you from the pain long enough for your body to heal and restore the damaged structure which, for many people, is all they need.
However, for people who are suffering from chronic back pain or a symptomatic spinal condition, the benefits of Icy Hot or another topical cream will likely be minimal.
Additionally, when it comes to conditions that stem from a problem within the structure of the spine itself, like a pinched nerve, chemicals of almost any type are going to be almost completely ineffective at healing your chronic back pain. Icy Hot may help dull your pain for a little while, but it will not make it go away.
Often that includes a consistent exercise regimen, a healthy diet, plenty of sleep and potentially anti-inflammatory medication. However, we also believe that knowledge is power. McKemy, D. Ghosh, A. The Conversation.
Wlassoff, V. Gate Control Theory and Pain Management. Email Share Tweet. But do the actual benefits of the product really live up to all the marketing hype? What is Icy Hot? Menthol Menthol is one of the most common chemicals used in topical pain relief.
Methyl Salicylate Methyl salicylate is an organic chemical compound that is derived naturally from several plant species, most commonly the wintergreen. Capsaicin Like methyl salicylate, capsaicin is a counterirritant that helps relieve pain by irritating the skin. The compound is what gives Icy Hot its heating properties.
How does Icy Hot Relieve Pain? Likely not. The product is applied to the affected area, massaged in until absorbed, and repeated up to four times daily. The balm is available in a 3. Icy Hot No Mess is a roll-on applicator. It is quick-drying and does not stain. The 2.
Apply to the affected area and massage into the skin. Repeat up to four times a day. Apply to the affected area every six to eight hours, up to three times daily. The product dries quickly, so there is no need to massage it in after you spray the affected area. You can repeat up to three or four times daily. Spray the product on the affected area every six to eight hours, up to three times daily.
These products are extremely flammable; do not use them when smoking or near heat or a flame. Read their labels for further instructions. Directions state that a thin layer of the product should be applied to the affected area, massaged into the skin, and repeated up to three or four times a day.
Icy Hot Vanishing Scent comes in a 2. The active ingredient is 2. Directions state that the product should be squeezed onto the affected area.
Then, using the sponge applicator, it should be massaged in until absorbed. It can be repeated up to a maximum of four times a day. The scent disappears quickly after application. Icy Hot Cream is a non-greasy formulation that works immediately on contact. There are three different versions of this cream:. The products should be applied to the affected area, massaged in to promote absorption, and repeated up to four times daily. Icy Hot continues to innovate its delivery systems.
These formulations are likely to change over time, with new ones added, old ones renamed, and less-popular forms discontinued. Compare those products for price and ingredients. The best way to treat a chemical burn is to remove the offending substance by flushing with cool water for 15 minutes. You can then wrap the burn with a sterile bandage to protect it.
No, Icy Hot does not reduce inflammation. Icy Hot works by creating cool and warm sensations on the skin that essentially "drown out" the pain. Learn tips for managing arthrits pain, medications, and daily challenges.
Lisi DM. OTC transdermal analgesic patches in pain management. US Pharmacist. Food and Drug Administration. Content current as of February 11, University of Florida Health. Chemical burn or reaction.
Updated September 23, Atlantic Brain and Spine. Is Icy Hot effective at relieving back pain? Published March 5, Icy Hot. About Icy Hot. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.
These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Table of Contents View All.
Table of Contents. Before Using.
0コメント