Cold is more effective for pain relief and inflammation than heat in most cases, but not so pleasant to apply. Administer by ice massage, compresses, gel-filled refreezable cold packs or plastic bags filled with ice or mixed ice and water. Put a thin cloth between the cold pack and the skin. Limit to 20 minutes three times a day. Continue for two months.
Good hydration is also a key requiring at least ten glasses of water or clear herbal tea every day.
G. WAX HEAT Wax heat is unsurpassed for the hands. Dip them several times into molten paraffin at 126-130 in a crock pot. Allow to harden. Cover with plastic bags and heated towels for 20 minutes. Peel off wax and return it to the pot.