Ice Packs/Cold Gel Packs

I buy these for like $1.47 at WalMart:

They also sell an elastic/ace bandage/velcro sleeve to put the thing in to hold it where youwant to ice. Been using these things for years.

I always tell my patients to use frozen peas or corn.  It is hard to get the "rabbit pellet" ice that conforms well to body parts when you aren't in a clinic.  Crushed ice melts too fast and clumps big time.

 I don't like the various gel packs.  The gel in them is made for coolers, to keep your favorite beverage cold, not icing body parts.  It freezes at colder temperature and rewarms faster.  The is a possibility of frostnip with them that is rare with good old frozen water.  (unless you have underlying conditions that make you intolerant to cold) 32 degree frozen water directly on skin for 20-30 minutes not a problem for most people.  Just a note cold tubs are a different story because of the larger amount of surface area.  Treatment times are shorter and water is usually about 40-60 degrees

 If you do use a gel pack put a layer of towel on first.  The problem there is that it decreases to cooling too far and you don't get as good of cooling. 

x2 on the peas/corn.

Couple notes on the ice applied directly- Keep it in motion, and reduce the time on bony areas (Such as ankles, fronts of knees, etc.)

I like to take dixie cups, fill with water and freeze. You can then tear away 1/2 the cup, and you have a ice massager with a handle.

John