How can ice reduce swelling?

This week on the Dispotech blog we will explain how ice can reduce swelling.  How does cold therapy work?  We will explain how it works here, together with its many benefits.

This week on the Dispotech blog we will explain how ice can reduce swelling. How does cold therapy work? We will explain how it works here, together with its many benefits.

The information below is supported by an article read on healthandcare.co.uk.

Surely at some point, you have fallen, bumped into something or even undergone surgery.  In a word, we all know that the pain caused by an accident or injury, even if treated, can be difficult to bear.  Ice is one of the most popular yet most effective remedies for relieving pain and at the same time decreasing the swelling of the affected area.

How do ice packs work - from the most ‘homemade’ kinds  to specific ones such as instant ice packs, sprays or gel packs? Below follows a series of questions and answers to the most common queries on the benefits of ice, better known as cryotherapy.  During the above process, in fact, the beneficial power of cold is able to:

Reduce swelling, as cold inhibits the normal speed of blood flow.  By slowing it down, the blood flows differently and consequently the swelling/inflammation decreases.

Provide relief. Intense cold creates a sort of ‘numbness’, so you feel less pain in the area affected by the swelling.

Ice packs can be used to treat a variety of situations but work really well on obvious swellings and very recent accidental falls that cause intense pain.  Cryotherapy is usually indicated for bruises, fractures, tendinitis, and sprains.

Can a pouch of frozen vegetables or a bag of ice made at home also work well in emergency situations? The answer is yes, but it would be better to keep ready-to-use products at home or at work. Ice frozen at home melts quickly and if used carelessly could cause cold burns - and worsen the situation!  Today it is possible to buy instant ice packs, gel packs to be chilled (or even heated), ice sprays, refreshing bandages: their cooling action activates in seconds.

Ice packs should not be applied to the area affected by swelling and pain for more than 20 minutes; breaks should be taken afterwards.  You can repeat the operation after allowing your body to rest.

You should also remember that heat has its benefits, as well. The action of heat, however, is indicated for treating chronic pain that is not inflammatory in nature.  Take care with what you use and consult your doctor for any doubts you may have.

To learn more about ice packs and our selection of ice packs, contact the team atDispotech