At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
What is an Ice Bandage?
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
An ice bandage is a bandage that uses cold temperature to help heal injuries. One of the key functions of an ice bandage is to help reduce swelling. In some cases, the bandage is simply a packet of cold material that is wrapped about the injured body part. In other cases, it is part of the bandage and is designed to fit against the body. It is quite common for an ice bandage to be used to treat a sports-related injury.
There are a number of kinds of ice bandages on the market. Some must be placed in a refrigerator or freezer to cool before being used. Others can create a cooling sensation on the offending body part without being cooled in a refrigerator. These are the key differences in the technology of an ice bandage. The key differences in the design of an ice bandage have to do with the ways in which they close. Some brands close using Velcro®, others close with a clasp.
It make good sense to keep an ice bandage on hand in a home first aid kit to deal with injuries that involve swelling. The types of injuries that can require the application of a cold compress include sprains, strained muscles, injuries that are the result of overuse, and bruises. By reducing swelling, an ice bandage can help to reduce pain. Furthermore, the low temperature can help to numb the area.
As many of the injuries that require cold compress treatment are related to physical activity, it is especially useful to keep an ice bandage in a home first aid kit if the home includes children or adults who are very active. An ice bandage is also a good item to keep in one's mobile first aid kit, especially if that kit is taken on outings that include hiking, camping, long distance running, biking, and similar physical activities. They can also be brought to kids' sports games to have on hand in case of injury.
Although these kinds of bandages are very useful to have on hand, it is important to have a medical professional address any injuries that are moderate to severe. Also, when in doubt about whether to use a warm compress or cold compress, consult a doctor or nurse before doing either. Using the wrong temperature can exacerbate the problem and increase the severity of an injury.
Diane Goettel
In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.
Learn more...
Diane Goettel
In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.
Learn more...AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![A cold compress can help to reduce pain to sprains and injuries that are caused by overuse.]()
By: Marina LohrbachA cold compress can help to reduce pain to sprains and injuries that are caused by overuse. -
![Ice bandages are often used for sports-related injuries.]()
By: highwaystarzIce bandages are often used for sports-related injuries. -
![Most ice bandages need to be placed in a refrigerator or freezer to cool before being used.]()
By: gustoledoMost ice bandages need to be placed in a refrigerator or freezer to cool before being used. -
![First aid kits taken on hiking trips should include an instant ice bandage.]()
By: Warren GoldswainFirst aid kits taken on hiking trips should include an instant ice bandage. -
![An ice bandage may be used on areas where a traditional compress would be difficult to hold into place, such as the shoulder or back.]()
By: RidoAn ice bandage may be used on areas where a traditional compress would be difficult to hold into place, such as the shoulder or back. -
![Injured soccer players may benefit from using an ice bandage.]()
By: Irina IgumnovaInjured soccer players may benefit from using an ice bandage.
Discussion Comments
I have used ice bandages a few times in the past. They definitely helped and I think they are a must have for emergency kits for on-the-go first aid. Sports teams need to have these in their kit. But I don't think that these are the best products out there for cold therapy at home because they are very wet. I'm not sure what they're made of, but I think they create the cool sensation with the use of water. So either they are wet or they need to be wet in order to stay cold after a few hours.
@bluedolphin-- Ice bandages (or "ice tape") is great! I highly recommend this type of product if you get injured often and experience pain and swelling. Yes, they really cool the area and the one I use lasts for at least an hour which I think is very good.
The ice bandage I have just looks like very long tape. It's very cold and also has menthol. I usually have problems with my ankles so I wrap the tape around my ankle and lie down. The inflammation and pain disappears soon afterward.
I think that ice bandages are much better than ice packs or instant cold packs because I don't have to hold them in place and I don't have to freeze them.
I had heard of cold wraps before, which is basically a wrap with a pocket to insert an ice pack. But this is the first time I'm hearing about an ice bandage. I think the idea is great, but do these bandages really work? I mean, do they really cool the area and how long do they last?
Post your comments