2. Cold

While heat helps, cold helps relieve the pain and stiffness as well. This is more like the most cost effective way of reducing the pain and getting through the day. Alternately applying heat and cold has shown that it can improve inflammation and relieve stiffness. Wrap up some ice cubes in a face towel and rub it on the affected area. If you want to reduce the messiness of the melting ice cubes, first load cubes in a zip lock bag and then wrap it in a towel. Applying cold for 20 mins and then alternating hot for another 20 mins will give you the best results.