Why do we use cold compress or ice packs to relieve pains? Physiology - We feel pains because sensory receptors of the injured area send pain stimuli or impulses to the brain to detect the injury and the pain. How fast the impulse is sent to the brain depends on temperature of the environment or the body. In a warm enviroment, the transmission is faster and you feel more pains. This is why injuries are more painful in the afternoons. By using a cold compress or ice pack, you have reduced temperature, thus reducing the rate at which impulses will be conducted. Localised cooling of a nerve can block impulse transmission.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Jun 2013 04:25:39 +0000
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