Use These Different Ice Packs on Every Part of Your Body
If you’ve ever had an injury or illness that requires ice, you probably know that not all ice packs are created equal. Trying to find one that is the right shape and size can be a challenge, and keeping it in place while using it can be frustrating. Finding the right ice pack for pain relief can be challenging, so here are some tips on how to choose the right ice pack for you.
Best Ice Pack for Knees and Ankles
For knees and ankles, it is best to use ice packs that cover the entire length of the joint for several reasons. First, the ice will cool the entire joint, helping to reduce inflammation on all sides and relieve pain. Second, ice packs wrapped around the joint are easier to hold in place, making them more comfortable. An added benefit of this type of ice pack is that it can also gently compress the joint, thereby helping to reduce pain.
The Best Ice Packs for Your Back
Getting an ice pack to stay on your back can be challenging, but there are several ways to combat this problem. The first is to choose a large ice pack with elastic Velcro straps that will cover your entire back. This may be a good option if you have pain that covers a large area of your back, or if your back pain makes it difficult to reach certain areas—the larger size of the ice pack and straps will make it easier to place. For local relief , a wrapper-sized ice pack may help.
Best Ice Pack for Upper Back and Neck
An ice pack for the upper back and neck is best shaped like a high-collar vest , with part of the ice pack wrapped around the shoulders and held in place with Velcro. This form of ice pack is also good for upper back pain and some types of shoulder pain. Although there are ice packs designed to fit only the top of the neck, they are too small for most neck pain and can also cause a pinching sensation in some people.
Best Ice Packs for Wrists and Elbows
For smaller joints such as wrists and elbows, a small ice pack in the form of a wrap works well. They have the same benefits as larger ice packs in the form of wraps for knees and shoulders. You can also try an ice pack specifically designed for your wrist, which fits like a fingerless glove and applies targeted compression to the joint.
The best ice pack for your hands
To ice your hand when you have joint pain due to injury or arthritis, a mitten-shaped ice pack is the best option. This will surround your hand and finger joints with ice, cooling the entire area and reducing inflammation. Using a larger ice pack like this will also allow you to stay cold longer, making it easier to cool the entire joint.
Best head pack
Nothing beats an ice pack wrapped around your head and eyes for headaches . While the cold is a little intense at times, it stays in place better than other options and also adds some compression. This type of ice pack will help with tension headaches as well as migraines.
Best ice pack in a pinch
In a pinch, a homemade freezer bag with karo syrup will be as cold as regular ice, but will remain in a gel-like state, making it easier to shape. Pour an entire 16-ounce bottle of Karo syrup into a freezer bag, then fold the bag in half to prevent leakage. Using a pillowcase between the plastic bag and your skin will make it more comfortable and easier to hold in place.