How to use ice.

** We Have Large and Small Ice Packs **

How To Use Ice

For mild-moderate conditions and chronic conditions (60 minute cycle):

  • Apply ice to the affected spinal areas on for 15 minutes and off for 45 minutes (1 set / 60 minute cycle)
  • Do this 4 times (4 sets over a 4 hour period)
  • Do this in a seated position for lower back/hip pain
  • You can do ice more than 4 times per day at your discretion

For moderate-severe conditions (30 minute cycle):

  • Apply ice to the affected spinal areas on for 15 minutes and off for 15 minutes (1 set / 30 minute cycle)
  • Do this 8 times (8 sets over a 4 hour period)
  • Do this in a seated position for lower back/hip pain
  • You can do ice more than 8 times per day at your discretion

General Rules re. Ice

  • Use a cover if applying ice to your skin or over a thin shirt
  • Use no cover if applying over a sweatshirt, sweater or multiple thin layers
  • You should not apply ice following exposure to cold weather or if you experience frostbite
  • Apply ice if you are prone to becoming sore following a treatment
  • Apply ice if it's been more than 1 month since your last treatment
  • Apply ice daily until you are at least 80% better
  • Apply ice immediately following any aggravating activity or during the activity if possible (think "football player on the sideline with ice on his knee or shoulder")
  • Don't apply ice if it makes your condition feel worse (see questions & answers below)

Questions & Answers re. Ice

Where can I get an ice pack?

We sell ice packs at the office.  Small ice packs are $8.00 and large ice packs are $17.00

Where can I get a cover for my ice pack?

Fold a washcloth in half and pin/sew the ends to make a cover for your ice pack

Why ice?

  • Ice helps to relax your muscles
  • Ice helps reduce the swelling and inflammation around the joints of your spine (heat aggravates inflammation)
  • Ice has an analgesic effect on pain.

Do I have to do the ice?

In general, ice will help you to improve more quickly while decreasing your chances of getting sore after treatment.

Can I lay down while applying ice to my lower back?

Yes, if: you're doing your last set before bedtime; it's too uncomfortable to do in a seated position; you have another condition which makes it difficult to apply ice while seated

What may happen if I ice my low back while lying down?

You may feel more stiff when you first get up.  Ice initially tends to "freeze" the muscles in the state they're in immediately following application.  While lying down, your low back muscles are shorter...while seated, your low back muscles are elongated as they are stretched over your hip joints.

I'm going on a trip or I drive for my job or I don't have access to a freezer.  How can I do the ice?

Normally I prefer ice packs, but if you don't have access to a freezer to re-freeze them when they thaw out, then i recommend you purchase a "folding ice cap" which is basically a rubber bladder (with a cap) that you put ice in and it won't leak.  That way, you can go to any fast-food restaurant (McDonalds), order a large drink and request an extra cup of ice. **HINT** Do not tell them the cup of ice is for your ice pack.  You can also carry extra ice in a small cooler either to your workplace or in your vehicle.

What should I do if ice makes my condition feel worse?

If you've applied the ice at least 4 times and you are certain that it is irritating your condition or making it feel worse, discontinue use until you talk to your chiropractor at your next appointment.

Can I alternate heat treatments with my ice treatments?

Discuss this with your chiropractor during your visit if:  ice is no longer helping your condition or improvement of your condition has "plateaued".

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