Using ice or heat on an injury can help reduce swelling and pain. However, it’s important to use the right treatment at the right time.

Ice

• Use ice for acute injuries, or injuries that are less than 48 hours old.
• Ice can help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain by constricting blood vessels and numbing the area.
• To use ice, wrap it in a towel or cloth and apply it to the injured area for 15-20 minutes at a time. Be sure not to apply ice directly to the skin, as this can cause frostbite.

Heat

• Use heat for chronic injuries or muscle soreness, or injuries that are more than 48 hours old.
• Heat can help increase blood flow, relax muscles, and reduce pain.
• To use heat, use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or heat wrap and apply it to the injured area for 15-20 minutes at a time. Be sure not to apply heat directly to the skin, as this can cause burns.

When Not to Use Ice or Heat

• Ice and heat should not be used on all injuries. For example, ice should not be used on open wounds, as it can cause tissue damage.
• If you’re not sure whether to use ice or heat on an injury, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for advice.

Here are some additional tips for using ice or heat on an injury:

• Always apply ice or heat for no more than 20 minutes at a time.
• Take breaks between applications of ice or heat.
• If you experience any discomfort, stop using ice or heat and consult a healthcare professional.

Using ice or heat can be an effective way to reduce swelling and pain from an injury. However, it’s important to use the right treatment at the right time and to follow the tips above to avoid any complications.