Both heat and cold therapy are used as non-invasive pain relievers for joint and muscle pain. These two therapies are very easy to apply and do not require extensive medical training. Although both therapies essentially serve the same purpose, to alleviate pain, they should be applied differently depending on whether the pain is chronic or acute.

Cold therapy is indicated for new injuries that will most likely lead to inflammation and swelling. The ice will reduce the blood flow to the affected area by constraining blood vessels and consequently decreasing inflammation. On the other hand, heat therapy is recommended for reoccurring pain and it works by increasing the blood flow in the affected area, which ultimately triggers the healing process. Continue reading →

Instant cold packs are a fast and convenient product for quick ice therapy for bruises, strains and sprains.  This sports trainer staple has until recently,    contained "AN".  "AN", (Ammonium Nitrate) sadly has been used for terrorist activity. " AN" is a potential component in bomb making and explosives.
Canada, along with the US and European Union, UK, Australia and others have put considerable licensing and inventory controls on "AN" and it's distribution.
First Aid Zone is pleased to announce that all instant cold packs we sell, no longer contain Ammonium Nitrate. Our supplier has developed an alternative chemical formula that is safe. Rapid Aid, our supplier and the largest contract manufacturer of cold pack in Canada has now substituted "CAN" (calcium ammonium nitrate), a safe and stable product that has no dangerous alternative uses.  When purchasing ice packs, be sure to check the contents!