Ice Pack Application: A Guide to Reducing Sprain Swelling

The acronym PRICE stands for Protect Rest Ice Compress Elevate, which, according the Mayo Clinic, are the steps you should take after excessively stretching a ligament, commonly called a "sprain." If you've experienced a sprain, applying an ice pack can reduce swelling and inflammation. You don't need a fancy ice pack to get relief; a bag of ice cubes will do.

Things You'll Need

• Ice cubes
• Plastic zipper bag
• Towel
• Belt or strap to hold the bag in place, if needed

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Instructions

• 1

  Fill the plastic bag about two-thirds full with ice cubes, then add some water and seal the bag. Check for leaks. You should be able to mold the bag easily.

• 2

  Wrap the bag in a towel to protect your skin from the cold.

• 3

  Hold the ice pack against your injury. If you are icing an ankle or knee, use a belt or strap to hold the bag in place. If you are icing your back, lay on top of the bag.

• 4

  Keep the ice pack on your injury for 10 minutes.

• 5

  Repeat the procedure every hour for the first 72 hours following the injury. After 72 hours, if you still have pain, increase the time to 15 minutes, and decrease to 3 times a day.