The Power of Ice: Cool the Burn, Reduce Swelling

In this episode of Your Healing Team Podcast, host Emma Green, physical therapist and Tennis Elbow Queen, delves deep into the world of ice therapy.

Discover why ice is the go-to remedy for recent injuries, how it works to reduce swelling and pain, and when it’s the most effective treatment.

Emma provides expert tips on how to safely apply ice, prevent frostbite, and maximize its healing effects, while also sharing her personal experiences from her years as a professional sports physical therapist.

Whether you're dealing with a new injury or just curious about recovery strategies, this episode will help you cool down and heal smartly!

Show Notes: Main Topic: The role of ice in injury management, especially for fresh injuries (less than three days old).

Key Points:

Why Use Ice?: Ice reduces swelling, bleeding, and pain in acute injuries by numbing the area and controlling inflammation. 

Ice Safety Tips: Use a protective barrier (like a damp towel) between the skin and ice to prevent frostbite or ice burns. Always apply ice for no more than 10 minutes.

When to Avoid Heat: If a body part is warm to the touch, it may indicate ongoing inflammation or infection. Ice is more appropriate in such cases.

Alternatives to Ice Packs: Frozen peas can work just as well as store-bought ice packs – just don’t eat them afterward!

Sensitive to Cold?: If ice feels too intense, modify the setup with additional layers to make the process more comfortable.

Pro Tips: Set a timer to avoid accidental over-icing, which can lead to skin damage. If in doubt, always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that ice is the right treatment for your injury.

Related Episode: For more on when to switch from ice to heat, check out our previous episode https://youtu.be/iUnHoOfFavU

Resources Mentioned: Recommended ice packs for effective therapy https://www.tenniselbowqueen.com/products

Have questions? Reach out to Emma at https://www.tenniselbowqueen.com/contact and stay tuned for more expert recovery tips in the next episode of Your Healing Team Podcast.