ICE, ICE, BABY?

To ice or not to ice—that is the question. You may think using an ice pack for every bump and bruise is harmless, but our resident expert warns that this is not always so. Here’s when to reach for one and when to steer clear.

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When to freeze:

As an ER doctor who takes care of kids, I often joke that an ice pop and an ice pack heal all! A good rule of thumb: When you have an acute injury, ice can be helpful, especially in the first 24 hours.

SPRAINS AND BRUISES

Twisted your ankle on a hike or sprained your knee playing pickleball? Icing it can help reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling by decreasing blood flow. Apply ice immediately post-injury for 20 to 30 minutes (it will take five to 12 minutes to start to decrease the pain) or in two 10-minute sessions. You may want to ice it as often as three to four times a day.