Is Heat or Ice Better for Muscle Knots and Tension

Does anyone find that cold weather makes their knots worse? Being in Toronto, I feel like my shoulders are permanently up to my ears from November to March.

100% yes. Cold makes you huddle and tighten up. That’s why I’m a firm believer in heat for recovery. It's psychological as much as physical.

Agreed. A hot water bottle is my best friend during the winter months. Simple, old-fashioned, but it works.

I'll still stand by ice if you've been working out hard in the heat. A cold shower or ice pack on the neck can stop that 'overheated' muscle tension before it starts.

What's the consensus on sauna vs steam room for this? I have both at my gym.

Sauna for overall recovery, but steam room is better for muscle 'softening' because of the humidity. It’s basically a giant moist heat pack for your whole body.

Plus, you can actually stretch a bit in the steam room. Trying to touch your toes in a dry sauna feels like your skin is going to crack.

So, to summarize: Heat for the knot itself, Lacrosse ball to kill it, and maybe Ice if it feels like it's burning. Sound about right?

Pretty much. And don't forget to stay hydrated! Dehydrated muscles knot up way faster.

And fix your posture! Most trap knots come from staring at a monitor all day. Move your screen up!