Cold therapy (ice)
Learn about Cold therapy (ice), including indications, benefits, and recovery considerations.
Overview
Cold therapy reduces inflammation and numbs pain in acute injuries.
Indications
Acute sprains, strains, or post‑exercise swelling.
How it helps
Constrains blood flow to reduce swelling and pain.
Implementation
Apply ice for 15–20 minutes with a barrier to protect skin.
Expected timeline
Most effective in the first 24–72 hours after injury.
When to seek care
If swelling or pain is severe or persistent, seek evaluation.
Cold therapy reduces inflammation and numbs pain in acute injuries.
Indications
Acute sprains, strains, or post‑exercise swelling.
How it helps
Constrains blood flow to reduce swelling and pain.
Implementation
Apply ice for 15–20 minutes with a barrier to protect skin.
Expected timeline
Most effective in the first 24–72 hours after injury.
When to seek care
If swelling or pain is severe or persistent, seek evaluation.