I agree about the hot and cold, but please be careful about putting ice directly on your skin. To help prevent freezer burns and/or nerve damage, wrap the ice in something before use. In terms of heat, although it feels very soothing and relaxing, it doesn't do a whole lot for you. Heat draws blood to the service of your skin, and in order to feel a difference deep in the joints, you need increased blood flow down into the soft tissue. Cold is important as it brings down the inflammation, but then you need to promote blood flow. The increased circulation will help with mobility and stiffness. It's lubricating the joints.