Very often we use expensive, sophisticated formulas for various ailments. Meanwhile, it turns out that help can come unexpectedly from products that cost nothing and are nearly always by your hands. This is the case with ice packs.
The beneficial properties of ice do not need to be convinced. The use of ice packings is certainly familiar to many of you from your own experience. We have probably applied ice pack more than once for swelling, bruising or various injuries.
Ice compresses act locally
- inhibit the development of inflammation
- they reduce bleeding and microbial growth
- they alleviate pain
- prevent or minimize swelling in case of twists, sprains, muscle and joint strains because they shrink blood vessels.
When using ice packs, remember not to put ice directly on the skin. In this way, we can only harm ourselves by causing frostbite. The ice sack should be wrapped with a flannel or other cover to absorb the moisture from melting ice. In addition, air should be released from the bag and it should be airtight.
When applying poultices, make sure that no changes appear on the skin. If you notice blisters, redness, marbling or pallor, stop the application immediately.
Cold compresses are used for
- contusions
- dislocations
- joint and muscle strain
- joint sprains
- swollen eyelids - we should not keep the compress on our skin too long
- bleeding from the nose - we put a compress on the forehead to reduce the blood flow to the nose
- joint swelling
- the so-called tennis elbow
- arthrosis
- back pains
Summary
Ice compresses are effective and yet easily accessible to everyone. We use them very often. They help with many injuries and illnesses. However, when using such compresses one should be careful not to cause frostbite accidentally.
