Gel Ice

Ice packs are found in millions of homes as they are used for a wide variety of purposes such as icing an injury and keeping food cold. They come in many forms and contain different ingredients depending on the type of ice pack. Some are in cute shapes with soft, gel-like beads in them. Other ice packs turn into solids when frozen but are soft and squishy when thawed. There are also one-time use "instant" ice packs, which can be found in many first-aid kits. These are stored at room temperature and only turn cold when squeezed. Depending on the type of ice pack, results of exposure can range from nontoxic to serious.

 

Advantages

Reusable

Relatively cheap and widely available

Can be used for both cold and hot purposes

Comes in many shapes and sizes depending on the body part

 

Disadvantages

Needs to be put in a freezer or microwave to obtain the right temperature

 

Best Used For

Long-term home treatment of both acute injuries and chronic conditions

 

How To Use

For cold therapy, put the gel pack in your freezer for at least two hours. Make sure they lie flat so that it can mold onto the affected area better.

For hot therapy, place the gel pack in the microwave. The heating duration usually depends on the size of the gel pack. Smaller gel packs only take 10 seconds to heat up, while bigger ones take about 40 seconds. Gradually heat the larger packs (10 to 15-second duration, with a few seconds in between) to avoid overheating.

Do not apply hot or cold packs directly onto your skin. Use a barrier like a towel or cloth before using the gel packs to avoid possible skin damage caused by extreme temperatures.

Apply the gel packs onto the affected area for about 15 - 20 minutes. Do not apply for more than the recommended duration. Allow the skin to return to its normal temperature before reapplying the hot or cold pack.

 

Benefits of Using Gel Packs

Pain relief – applying cold will numb the painful area.

Reduce swelling – icing will reduce internal bleeding.

Ease muscle spasm – aid muscle relaxation post-injury.

Cooling effect – reduce fever or cool down on a hot day.

Transportation—it is used to transport food and medicine.