Thermotherapy

Heat therapy can help relax muscles and increase blood flow to the affected area, which can reduce pain and
stiffness. Heat therapy can be applied using a heating pad, topical heat cream, hot shower, or hot pack, and can be done 2-3 times a day for 20-30 minutes.

Cold therapy can reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain related to arthritis and activity. Cold therapy can be applied using a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel and can be done for 15-20 minutes at a time. Cold therapy is recommended for certain types of arthritis that cause painful inflammation flares, such as gout and pseudogout.