Icing an injured body part is an important part of treatment. Icing injuries can be effective for sprains, strains, overuse injuries and bruises. Learn how to properly ice your injury
- Get the ice on quickly.
Icing is most effective in the immediate period following an injury. The effect of icing diminishes significantly after about 48 hours. - Perform an "ice massage."
Apply ice directly to the injury. Move the ice frequently, not allowing it to sit in one spot. - Don't forget to elevate.
Keep the injured body part elevated above the heart while icing -- this will further help reduce swelling. - Watch the clock.
Ice for 15-20 minutes, but never longer. You can cause further damage to the tissues, including frostbite, by icing for too long. - Allow time between treatments.
Allow area to warm for at least 45 minutes or an hour before beginning the icing routine again - Repeat as desired.
Ice as frequently as you wish, so long as the area is warm to touch and has normal sensation before repeating. - Ice Option 1 -- Traditional:
Use a Ziploc bag with ice cubes or crushed ice. Add a little water to the ice bag so it will conform to your body. - Ice Option 2 -- Best:
Keep paper cups filled with water in your freezer. Peel the top of the cup away and massage the ice-cup over the injury in a circular pattern allowing the ice to melt away. - Ice Option 3 -- Creative:
Use a bag of frozen peas or corn from the frozen goods section. This option provides a reusable treatment method that is also edible. - Prevent Frostbite:
Do not allow ice to sit against the skin without a layer of protection. Either continually move the ice (see "ice massage") or use a thin towel between the ice and skin.
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