I had the same exact question today. I found this site to be the most helpful. It explains the difference very well.
http://sportsmedicine.about.com/cs/rehab/a/heatorcold.htm
Ice for swelling heat is for relaxing mussels
Heat application along with treatment with ice to heal a strained muscle, the warmth is used to soften the muscles.
With ice or heat. Ice for bones, heat for muscles.
you ice it and heat it do a lot of stretching
With ice the first couple days then heat.
To effectively treat extremely sore muscles, you can try methods such as rest, ice or heat therapy, gentle stretching, massage, and over-the-counter pain relievers. It's important to listen to your body and not overexert yourself while allowing time for the muscles to heal. Consulting a healthcare professional for severe or persistent soreness is also recommended.
When in doubt, use ice. Most injuries cause swelling and inflammation of the tissues, and ice will help that. Heat is best for tired muscles.
yes. sometimes. other times heat feels better.
Ice-cream treat
For muscle cramps, applying heat is typically more effective than ice. Heat can help relax the muscles, increase blood flow, and alleviate the discomfort associated with cramps. Ice is usually more appropriate for acute injuries or inflammation.
It is generally recommended to use ice for the first 48 hours after a rib fracture to help reduce swelling and pain. After the initial 48 hours, heat therapy may be more beneficial to help relax the muscles and promoting healing. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance on treatment.
Heat will ease the tension, ice will ease the ache.