Heat stimulates blood flow to the injured area and should not be utilized to relieve swelling or inflammation. Heat is useful for healing stiff joints and relaxing muscles. This is helpful for shoulder injuries that cause persistent pain by allowing blood vessels to relax, increasing the number of nutrients delivered to the area, and reducing muscle or joint stiffness. Consult your doctor about the type of shoulder injury you have to determine whether you should apply heat to the injured area.
Make sure to use warm, not “hot” temperatures
Use a warm cloth, heating pad, or moist heat
Do not apply the heat for more than 30 minutes