Why Use Ice Therapy?

Ice therapy (cryotherapy) helps reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation after an injury. It is most effective in the first 24-72 hours following sprains, strains, bruises, or post-surgical recovery.

Benefits of Ice Therapy

✔ Reduces swelling and inflammation
✔ Numbs pain and discomfort
✔ Lowers tissue damage after an injury
✔ Speeds up healing when used correctly

When to Use Ice Therapy

🔹 Acute injuries (sprains, strains, fractures, bruises)
🔹 Swelling after surgery
🔹 Tendonitis or bursitis flare-ups
🔹 Muscle soreness after exercise

🚫 Do NOT use ice if you have:
⚠ Poor circulation or nerve damage (e.g., diabetes, Raynaud’s disease)
⚠ Frostbite or already numb skin
⚠ Open wounds (unless directed by a doctor)

How to Apply Ice Therapy

Standard Ice Pack Method

✔ Use a cold pack, bag of ice, or frozen peas wrapped in a towel (never apply ice directly to the skin).
✔ Apply for 15-20 minutes at a time.
✔ Repeat every 2-3 hours for the first 48-72 hours after an injury.
✔ Elevate the injured area above heart level to reduce swelling.

Ice Massage (For Small Areas & Tendonitis)

✔ Freeze water in a paper cup, peel back the top, and rub directly over the injury in circular motions.
✔ Apply for 5-10 minutes, then stop to prevent frostbite.

Cold Water Immersion (For Hands or Feet)

✔ Soak the affected area in cold water (50-59°F) for 10-15 minutes.

Precautions

⚠ Never apply ice for longer than 20 minutes – It can cause frostbite or skin damage.
⚠ Wait at least 1 hour between icing sessions to prevent tissue damage.
⚠ If skin becomes numb, red, or painful, stop immediately.

When to Stop Ice Therapy

✔ After 48-72 hours, when swelling subsides, switch to heat therapy (warm packs or gentle movement) to promote healing.
✔ If pain worsens or does not improve after 72 hours, seek medical attention.

Bottom Line

✔ Use ice therapy for swelling and pain relief in the first 48-72 hours.
✔ Limit application to 15-20 minutes per session to prevent damage.
✔ Elevate the injured area while icing for best results.
✔ Switch to heat therapy after swelling decreases to improve healing.

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Contact a Key West orthopedic clinic or reach out to Dr. Jason Pirozzolo.