Place the ice pack on the site of the pain in the area your doctor has indicated.
Leave the ice on for 20 minutes and then remove for the next 20 minutes and reapply for another 20 minutes. You can repeat this cycle as often as needed or as recommended by your doctor.
Cold Facts:
- Injury to a joint results in inflammation to the surrounding muscle fibers, tendons, ligaments, and nerves with resulting symptoms of pain, swelling, heat, and redness.
- The application of cold to the injured area will result in vasoconstriction helping to reduce the symptoms of inflammation and will help relax muscle spasm.
- The application of cold during the first 24 to 48 hours after injury will reduce recovery time. However, weight-bearing joints, including the spine, are constantly receiving micro-traumas. These joints will greatly benefit form the application of cold throughout your chiropractic care.
- The application of heat alone during treatment may prolong recovery time.
- Application of cold:
- Always wrap the cold pack in a towel during use.
- Duration 20 minutes.
- Frequency minimum of 2-4 times per day.
Ice helps to:
- Reduce swelling.
- Ease pain.
- Relax muscles in spasm.