Why do extreme temperatures (hot and cold) make sore muscles feel better?
In: Biology
When you work out or do anaerobic physical activity, your muscles produce lactic acid. Getting in an ice bath constricts your blood vessels and muscles which helps to squeeze the acid out. Heat dilates the blood vessels helping to improve circulation to get it out and oxygen in. It advances the recovery process.
The immediate relief comes from what others are saying. It serves as additional stimuli to the nerves which covers up some of the pain.
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