Reducing Symptoms
Ice packs bring cold therapy to your injury. The coolness of the ice will make the affected area numb and reduce sensations of pain and tenderness. The Healthy Me website states that ice can also ease muscle spasms.
Blood Constriction
Whereas heat opens your blood vessels and increases blood flow, ice constricts blood vessels. This reduces the amount of blood to the area, which in turn reduces swelling and inflammation. By slowing blood flow to the area you allow your injured area to rest and heal. The New York-Presbyterian Hospital states that applying ice can also help to slow or stop any bleeding.
Use
In order to avoid frostbite, do not place the ice pack directly on your skin. Use a light towel or sheet in between the ice pack and your skin. Ice packs can be applied for up to 15 minutes at a time. Throughout the day you can apply the ice pack again. According to the University of Michigan Health Center, "Ice should be used for the first two to three days after an injury or until the swelling goes away." It can also be used in cases of chronic pain whenever your symptoms flare up.
Variety of Forms
Some packs are made up of gel that turns into ice when placed in the freezer. There are also chemical packs that become cold when you hit them. You can also make your own cold pack by using a bag of frozen peas, wrapping ice cubes in a bag or by running a towel under cold water and then placing it in the freezer.
