FAQ
Find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about ice packs and the IcePacks4Less website.
- What type of injuries should I use an ice pack on?
Ice and cold packs are ideal for relieving muscular injuries, sprains and bruising. They are perfect following knee surgery such as arthroscopy, meniscectomy and ligament reconstruction, in order to prevent swelling and relieve pain.
Apply an ice or cold pack to the injured or sore area at least 3 times a day for as long as you have pain, swelling, and inflammation. For the first 72 hours, ice for 10 minutes, once an hour. After that, use ice for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 times a day: in the morning, in the late afternoon after work or school, and about one-half hour before bedtime.
Instant ice packs are perfect if you do not have access to a fridge or freezer. By controlling pain and swelling ice packs can speed up sports injury and knee surgery rehabilitation.
*Please be aware this is only guidance ad it is advised to seek advice from your GP or medical professional.
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- Is there an expiry date on hot/cold packs?
Technically yes, they do have an expiry date. However, it is strongly advised to replace them every few years if you haven’t used them due to the chemicals contained in the packs.
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- How do you use an instant ice pack?
An instant cold pack is a device that consists of two bags; an internal bag containing water, and an organic compound called urea. When the inner bag of water is broken by squeezing the package, it is allowed to dissolve the solid in an endothermic reaction. This reaction absorbs heat from the surroundings, quickly lowering the pack's temperature.
Instant cold packs are a convenient direct replacement for crushed ice used as first aid on sports injuries.
They are very easy to use, simply squeeze the inner button and shake. This will activate the cold pack making it cold within seconds; then place on the injury.
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- How do I know whether to use a hot or cold pack?
Choosing between moist heat and cold therapy - Heat or Ice is important depending on the type of injury. IcePacks4Less gives you specific choices for hot packs and cold packs.
Cold Therapy - Ice should be applied for the first 3 days following any type of acute injuries such as a knee sprain, post-surgery, or any type of swelling. Ice works to reduce inflammation around the area of injury. An ice pack can also work to numb the area of pain, creating an analgesic effect.
Heat Therapy - Heat should be used for chronic conditions such as muscle discomfort, stiffness. Applying heat to an area effectively opens up the blood vessels allowing blood to flow freely to the affected area. This increases circulation, delivering an increased supply of oxygen and nutrients and removing waste from sore, fatigued and injured muscles. Using a Hot Pack can be especially useful on a muscle spasm.
- How long should I apply an ice pack for?
Ice and cold packs can relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation from injuries and other conditions.
Apply an ice or cold pack to the injured or sore area at least 3 times a day for as long as you have pain, swelling, and inflammation. For the first 72 hours, ice for 10 minutes, once an hour. After that, use ice for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 times a day: in the morning, in the late afternoon after work or school, and about one-half hour before bedtime. Also, ice after any prolonged activity or vigorous exercise.
Instant ice packs are perfect if you don't have access to a fridge or freezer. By controlling pain and swelling ice packs can speed up sports injury and knee surgery rehabilitation.
- Can I use instant hot/cold packs on children?
es, you can. Make sure you always follow the instructions so as not to damage children’s sensitive skin. We have specialised kids ice packs that are better suited for their skin such as Elly the Elephant and Woopsadaisy Gel Packs.