Ice pack or cold pack


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Ice pack or cold pack


Follow these steps to make an ice pack:

  • Put about of ice in a plastic bag.
  • Add enough water to barely cover the ice.
  • Squeeze the air out of the bag, and seal it.
  • Wrap the bag in a damp towel, and apply it to the painful area.
  • Use the ice pack for up to 15 minutes at a time.

You can make cold packs from items found in your freezer, or you can buy commercial cold packs.

  • Ice bags or bags of frozen peas are inexpensive, last 10 to 20 minutes, and mold well to your body.
  • Cold packs (vinyl-coated silica gel) are lightweight, mold to your body, and last for 20 to 30 minutes. (If the chemical inside leaks out, you may get a chemical burn.)

Credits


Author Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Editor Alison Allen
Editor Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Martin Gabica, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD

- Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH

- Dentist
Last Updated December 1, 2006

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Last updated: December 01, 2006
Author: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Reviewed By: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
Editors: Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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