If you have an older injury that is bothering you, then apply MOIST HEAT to the area.  You can create your own moist heat with a heating pad wrapped in a hot hand towel, stand in a hot water shower, or soak in a hot tub.  Heat should be applied every two hours, or as needed.

Although it is tempting to always want to heat an inflamed area, avoid doing so if it is a NEW pinched nerve, stiff neck, or sore low back.  The reason?  Heat causes the blood to flow more readily, and you will get more of a "throbbing" sensation at the point of discomfort.....That's not what you need!