Does icy-hot really work?

Question

I just put some on my thigh about 10minutes a go b/c it feels like I pulled something after I got back from my run. So far the pain is still there when I flex my muscle but my whole thigh feels really hot and tightly. This is the first time I used it so can anyone tell me how long it takes to work? I am starting to think that it just disguise your pain with a funny feeling. thoughts?

Answer 1

You got the 'idea'. Icy/hot just masks the pain. Ice the area for no more than 20 minutes a time every hour; warm bath with epsom salts; Advil or Aleve according to directions, for some relief.

Answer 2

it works to an extent, now if this is your first time running then it doesn't matter if you soak yourself in a tub of icy hot it still won't help after it wears off. but it does work. i can't explain it but for me it works better here then it does there. i don't know.

Answer 3

When i use icy hot it works really well but maybe your injury is a little more serious. If your able to get in a jacuzzi you should feel it up with reealyyyyy hott water and turn on the jets...that always make my legs get really lose after a run :)

Answer 4

give it some time and you will feel a difference

Answer 5

it does work usually within five minutes but it is only going to ease the pain, not eliminate it.

Answer 6

It's not like an anti-inflammatory drug that is supposed to take the pain away for a short period of time.

It is more like treatment of said pain, like icing or applying heat, that can be used to help a variety of running ailments. Those types of treatment need to be done more than once. Along with Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.

Answer 7

It works..... but more for such things as when your really sore from training and need your body (or part that is sore) to feel as close to normal as possible.  Sounds to me like you may have injured yourself somewhat, won't really help that much in this case.  Works usually around 15-30 minutes.  I've used it many times but only before a race  b/c my calves were a bit sore ..... rub some on and it really wakes them up for the race.