Before the discovery of aspirin in 1889, the application of heat or cold ranked among the most effective means of treating headaches. While it does take more time and effort than popping a pill, such modern aids as gel packs, heating pads and hot and cold showers have made temperature therapy even more effective today.
Temperature therapy works on three levels. First, neat is used to dilate arteries during the Stage 2 constriction phase in the headache process, while cold is used to constrict arteries during the Stage 3 dilation phase. Second, heat relaxes tense neck and shoulder muscles that initiate tension headaches. Heat followed by a short period of cold is an even more effective muscle relaxant.
Third, applying heat or cold to any part of the body creates what is known as a counterstimulation effect. For example, if we apply the heat to our hands, our awareness shifts from the headache to the sensation of warmth in the hands. In the process, pain impulses from the headache are short-circuited and we become less sensitive to the headache pain.
Never expose your skin or scalp to any temperature that is obviously too hot or too cold for comfort. If you feel uncomfortable, adjust the temperature immediately. And avoid standing under a shower cold enough to shock or cause shivering. A cool, brisk shower is just as effective. Temperature therapy should be pleasant, comfortable and relaxing at all times.
Elderly ðåîðlå, in particular, are advised to avoid exposure to extremes of temperature. And those with diabetes, or other dysfunctions that distort temperature awareness, should have their physician’s approval before using temperature therapy. In fact unless you are obviously fit, hardy and in perfect health, you should check with your physician before adopting any temperature therapy. Naturally, if you are taking a prescription medication or are under medical treatment for any reason, you should have your doctor’s approval before using temperature therapy.
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