Cold compresses are one of the most basic methods of treating injuries. The cold compress method is usually applied within 48 hours of the injury, while the hot compress is more suitable for treating chronic pain. Cold compresses relieve pain and inflammation and speed up the healing process. However, the cold compress method doesn't just stick a bag of ice cubes on the injured area. To avoid making the problem worse, learn how to apply the cold compress method correctly to ensure the injury heals quickly and efficiently.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Checking for Injuries
Step 1. Examine all injuries before deciding on a treatment method
There are different types of injuries that need to be treated with the cold compress method; most are lumps and mild bruising that do not require further medical treatment. Some types of injuries, such as fractures, joint dislocations, and concussions, require immediate treatment. If in doubt, go to the doctor or emergency room for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Step 2. Check for broken bones
Fractures are an emergency medical condition that must be treated immediately. Cold compresses can be applied to the fracture area to reduce swelling and relieve pain. This method is only a temporary treatment while waiting for professional medical help and cannot replace primary care. If any of the following symptoms occur, call the emergency department.
- There are parts of the body that are unnaturally shaped. For example, a clearly flexed forearm is an indication of a fracture.
- Severe pain that gets worse when the injured body part is moved or pressed.
- The injured body part cannot function properly. The area below the fracture area often loses some or all of the ability to move. People who have broken leg bones may find it difficult to move their legs.
- Bone protruding from the skin. In some cases of severe fractures, the broken bone is pushed through the skin.
Step 3. Check for any dislocated body parts
A dislocation occurs when one or both of the bones that make up a joint are pushed out of their normal position. This condition requires medical attention. Apply a cold compress while waiting for medical help to arrive, as in the case of a broken bone. If any of the following symptoms occur, keep the injured body part immobile, apply a cold compress, and seek medical attention.
- Joints that are clearly deformed/positioned
- Swelling or bruising around the joints
- Severe pain
- Can't move. The area under the dislocated joint is usually difficult or immobile.
Step 4. Watch out for concussions
Although cold compresses are often used to treat bumps and bruises on the head, make sure that a concussion doesn't occur. A concussion is a serious injury that must be treated immediately. Symptoms of a concussion are confusion or amnesia, which is sometimes preceded by fainting or loss of consciousness. A concussion is difficult to detect on your own so someone else should check you for the following symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if a concussion is suspected.
- Loss of consciousness. Even if it's only for a few seconds, loss of consciousness is a sign of serious injury. You should seek medical attention immediately.
- Severe headache
- Confusion, dizziness, and disorientation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Ears ringing
- Speech disturbance or difficulty
Step 5. Choose the right compression method:
hot or cold. After properly examining the injury and confirming that professional medical help is not required, determine the appropriate treatment method. People often ask which compresses are useful for minor injuries: heat or cold. Both are used in different situations.
- Use a cold compress as soon as the injury occurs. Usually during the first 48 hours after the injury occurs, a cold compress is the best method of treatment. Cold compresses help relieve swelling, pain, and inflammation.
- Hot compresses are used to treat muscle pain that is not caused by a specific injury. Hot compresses can also be applied to the muscles before activities or sports to relax and warm the muscles.
Part 2 of 3: Cooling the Injury
Step 1. Prepare a cold compress
You can buy cold compresses at the supermarket or make your own.
- There are two types of cold packs sold in supermarkets: gel-based cold packs, which are stored in the freezer and can be reused, and instant cold packs, which cool quickly and are disposable. Cold compresses should be available at home and in first aid kits. However, there are also a variety of home cold compresses that can be used.
- Put the ice cubes in a plastic bag. Fill with water, just until the ice cubes are submerged. Let out the air before closing the bag.
- Frozen vegetables can also be used as a cold compress. A good example is a bag of frozen peas. This compress can follow the shape of the injured body area and be stored back in the freezer.
Step 2. Wrap the cold compress in a towel
Never apply a cold compress directly to the skin as it can cause frostbite and nerve damage. Therefore, wrap the cold compress in a towel before applying it to the skin.
Step 3. Lift the injured body part
While applying a cold compress, lift the injured body part. This method allows blood to flow away from the injured area so that the swelling is reduced. The combination of an ice pack and a lift helps reduce inflammation.
Step 4. Apply a cold compress to the injury
Cold compresses are most effective when used immediately after the injury. So, you should immediately take a cold compress.
- Apply cold compresses to ensure that the entire injured area is properly cooled.
- If necessary, a cold compress can be tied to the injured area with a non-adhesive bandage. Loosely tie a cold compress to the injured area. Do not tie the bandage too tightly as this can cut off blood flow. If the area starts to turn blue/purple, the bandage is too tight and should be removed immediately.
Step 5. Keep the cold pack away from the skin after 20 minutes
Do not put a cold compress on the skin for more than 20 minutes as it can cause frostbite and other skin damage. Remove the cold compress from the skin and do not apply it again until the skin is no longer numb.
Don't fall asleep with the cold compress still on the skin. If you fall asleep, the cold compress can stay on your skin for hours and cause damage. Set an alarm or have someone remind you within 20 minutes
Step 6. Apply a cold compress every 2 hours
Continue treatment with the following conditions: application of cold compresses for 20 minutes and pause for 2 hours, until it is no longer swollen or for 3 days.
Step 7. Take pain medication
If pain from an injury is bothersome, take over-the-counter pain relievers.
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are designed to relieve swelling and inflammation. Examples of NSAIDs: ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve).
- Take the drug according to the instructions listed on the package so as not to overdose.
Step 8. Consult a doctor if symptoms do not improve
If you've used a cold compress for 3 days, but the swelling still persists and the pain doesn't subside, there may be an undetected fracture or dislocation. Check with your doctor to determine if the injury is more serious than initially thought.
Part 3 of 3: Learning Basic Injury Treatment Methods
Step 1. Use the RICE method
The standard treatment method for treating most acute injuries is called the RICE method, which stands for: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate. By taking the following steps, injuries can heal quickly and efficiently.
Step 2. Rest the injured body part
The injured area of the body is susceptible to further damage. So, rest the area for at least a few days. Do not engage in strenuous activities until the injury has completely healed.
Feel your body. If certain activities cause pain, do not do them until the injury has healed
Step 3. Apply a cold compress to the injured area
Use a cold compress for at least 3 days after the injury. Continuous cooling relieves inflammation and aids the healing process.
Step 4. Press the injured body part
Wrap the injured area with an elastic bandage to keep the area from moving to prevent further injury.
Wrap tightly, but not tight. If there is tingling or numbness, the bandage is too tight. Take it off and wrap it back more loosely
Step 5. Lift the injured body part
Elevating the injured area allows blood to flow away from the area, which reduces swelling and inflammation and allows the injury to heal faster.
Ideally, the injured body part is elevated above the heart to allow blood to flow effectively away from the injured area. If the injury occurs in the back, lie down with your back supported by a pillow
Tips
Using a cold compress is usually uncomfortable, but the positive effects of the method are far more important than any temporary discomfort you may feel
Warning
- Never apply a cold compress directly to the skin as it can cause frostbite and nerve damage. Always wrap a cold compress in a towel or T-shirt first.
- Do not fall asleep with the cold compress still on the injured area.
