Ice Massage
0°C (32°F)
Home
Conditions & Indications
Treatments
Resources
Materials needed
Ice in paper cup
Washcloth
Hand towels
Large towels.
Indications
Soft tissue injuries
Neck or back pain (acute or chronic)
Painful muscles
Sprains and strains (first 48 hours)
Contraindications
Allergy/intolerance to cold
Hypersensitivity to cold
Raynaud’s disease
Poor circulation
Cuts and burns
Poor circulation/PVD
Severe diabetes
Elderly or infants
Cold or chilled patient
Over implants (pacemaker...)
Stroke
Rheumatoid arthritis
Very painful inflammation (use ice pack instead)
Special Considerations
Make sure patient is warm during treatment.
Keep linen dry.
Do not rub directly on bony prominences.
Do not use on people afraid or sensitive to cold
Procedure
Protect the furniture.
Peel off cup to expose ice.
Rub ice in a circular motion.
Massage for 15 min.
Dry thoroughly when done.
Rest for 20 minutes.
Keep area warm.