What Is the Difference Between Wet Heat & Dry for Sore Muscles?

Other than a deep-tissue massage, many people find there is nothing that soothes tired sore muscles like the application of penetrating heat. Some people may find dry heat easier to apply; however, moist heat may actually provide more relief.

Overall Benefits Of Heat Therapy

• Heat therapy for sore muscles, whether dry or moist, increases blood flow to the affected area and enables the relaxation of muscle tissue. As the muscles relax, and the heat penetrates into the tissue, pain diminishes.

Benefits Of Wet Heat

• Wet heat in general may be a better choice for relieving sore muscles. Because of the moisture accompanying the heat source, penetration tends to go deeper than just the surface of the skin, according to Vert Mooney, M.D., writing for Spine-Health.com. Dry heat, as in electric heating pads, can draw out moisture and irritate the skin.

Types Of Moist Heat

• Moist heat can be applied in several ways. Heating a damp towel in the microwave for a few seconds and laying it over an irritated area administers relief. For overall body soreness, soaking in a hot bathtub or sitting in a steam sauna may provide more relief.

Dry Heat Therapy

• Healing Heat

  Dry heat may tend to dehydrate the skin. Standard dry heat therapy consists of electric heating pads and wraps or dry saunas.

Precautions

• When administering heat therapy, whether dry or moist, make sure there is a protective layer of cloth or insulation between the pad and your skin. For the deepest penetration and relief of pain, using moderate heat for a longer duration is more effective than employing just a few minutes of intense heat.

When To Avoid Using Heat

• Heat is not the recommended mode of therapy in the first 24 to 48 hours after a muscle strain because of muscle inflammation. Rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE) should be administered initially on sore, strained or inflamed muscles. Dr. Mooney of Spine-Health.com notes that, in general, "if the injured area is swollen or bruised it is better to apply ice or a cold pack to reduce the inflammation or swelling."