2. Contrast Therapy
Still not convinced that you should be using a heat pack? Then consider contrast therapy.
Contrast therapy is essentially a form of therapy that involves using both hot and cold together – switching from one to the other. You might do this – for example – by taking a freezing cold shower, then turning it up warm again, and so forth.
The reason that this is effective, is that by constantly switching from hot to cold, you are able to cause the blood vessels to intermittently expand and contract (dilate and constrict). That, in turn, means that they will be acting as a pump, helping to encourage further blood flow to the area.
This might also help you to enjoy the benefits of both hot and cold therapy simultaneously, rather than having to choose just one.