Ice vs Heat?

Okay- I did NOT crack a rid earlier this week. Looks like I just pulled a muscle. (Probably my upper abdominal oblique)
http://www.unm.edu/~lkravitz/Media/transverse.gif
Would an ice pack session or a heating pad be a more effective method to enhance recovery time? I usually feel better after I use the heating pad.

if it is more than 3 days old go with the heat.

If less than 48 hours or more for a larger injury, ice.
Older than this I find alternating ice heat most helpfull.
Ice is anti-inflamatory, so good where you want this eg tendonitis or to limit bleeding into a bruise.
Heat increses circulation into that area.

If there's no swelling,After 48 hrs,go ice/heat.It's painful,but effective.