Heat therapy is great for joint pain and stiffness that last a long time. It helps by making blood flow better and by helping muscles feel more relaxed. Cold therapy is best for new injuries. Using heat or cold to relieve joint pain is a common strategy in managing rheumatic diseases such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions. However, choosing the right therapy depends on several factors, including the type of pain, the underlying cause, and the stage of. Both types of therapy work differently, but they can both alleviate symptoms — especially when you alternate methods Your arthritis is causing joint pain, stiffness and inflammation. However, people are often confused about when to use heat therapy and when to use cold therapy.