Should I use ice or heat for knee pain?

When ice helps

• In the first two or three days after a twist, knock or strain
• When the knee is swollen or feels warm after activity
• After sport or a long walk that provoked a flare

Wrap ice or a frozen pack in a thin towel and apply for about 15 to 20 minutes, then remove it. You can repeat every few hours. Raising the leg at the same time helps swelling drain.

When heat helps

• Stiffness first thing in the morning or after sitting, typical of osteoarthritis
• Tight muscles around the knee before gentle exercise
• Long-standing aches without swelling

A warm pack, a warm towel or a warm shower for 15 to 20 minutes can loosen the joint before your exercises. Check the temperature carefully, and avoid heat on a knee that is already hot, red or swollen.

Safety points

• Always place a cloth between the skin and the ice or heat source
• Take extra care if you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced sensation, as burns and cold injury can happen without you feeling them
• Do not fall asleep with a heat pad on
• Avoid ice over the outer side of the knee for long periods, where a nerve runs close to the skin
• Stop if the skin becomes very red, blistered, white or numb

When neither is enough

If a knee needs ice or heat every day to get through ordinary activities, it is time to find out why. A hot, red, swollen knee with fever is not one to treat at home; it needs urgent medical review.

At Aman Hospital in Doha, Dr. Gelber can diagnose the cause and recommend treatment that goes beyond symptom relief, from a physiotherapy plan to injections or surgery when indicated.