Ice, it turns out, is not only useful for soothing a toothache but also beneficial as a painkiller for, among other things, sore muscles and neuralgia. An ice pack wrapped on an arthritic knee, for example, relieves pain for patients who haven’t been helped by heat or drugs. And, amazingly, when the ice pack is applied for twenty minute periods three times a day, both knees may become more flexible.
Ice is also an appropriate way to treat a bruise. Apply cold compresses five or six times in twenty-four hours. This will constrict the blood vessels, keep the swelling down, and speed healing. After that, heat should be applied, also five or six times a day, until the bruise is gone. This increases the blood flow in the undamaged area near the bruise and removes all the blood that’s gotten into the skin.
Ice therapy is a drug-free way to eliminate pain, but always wrap it in a towel, ice bag, or rubber glove, even if you’re using a pre-packaged ice pack. Incidentally, if you’re up to it, soaking in a very cool bath will often produce the same painkilling effect.
See what others have to say about this story or leave a comment of your own.
No comments:
Post a Comment