Icing

What is icing?

Icing is the use of ice, an ice pack or a cooling unit to help reduce swelling and pain or discomfort caused by the swelling. There are several types of “ice packs” you can use:

• A cooling device

• A commercial ice bag

• Ziploc bags, doubled, half filled with ice

• Commercial gel packs that you refreeze

• Large bags of frozen peas that can be refrozen

How does icing work?

Ice numbs pain and causes blood vessels to constrict, which helps reduce swelling.

When can icing be used?

Icing can be used whenever there is swelling. Taking steps to reduce swelling will help control the pain you feel and increase your range of motion – possibly helping you recover faster. Swelling can be caused by surgery or an injury.

What are the benefits of icing?

Ice can be applied as often as once an hour for 20 to 30 minutes to help control pain and swelling.

What precautions should I take to avoid injury to my skin?

• Never apply ice or a cooling device pad directly to the skin.

• Place a towel or other cloth between your skin and the ice pack or cooling device pad.

• Ice or a cooling device should never be applied longer than 30 minutes.

• Ice or a cooling device should be removed if the area becomes numb regardless of how long it has been applied.

What are tips for effective icing?

• An ACE™ bandage wrapped loosely around the swollen area will help hold the ice pack in place.

• Ice can be placed both on top of and under the knee so the entire area is covered.

• Use ice or a cooling device once an hour for approximately 20 to 30 minutes to help control pain and swelling.

• Make sure that you place a towel or cloth in between an ice pack or cooling device pad and your skin.

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