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When the entire body has long remained in chilly surroundings it becomes thoroughly chilled and its various functions are slowed down and depressed. But if only a portion of the body is chilled, its activities are heightened.
Definition – A local application of ice to a portion of the body.
A. PHYSIOLOGIC EFFECTS
Blood flow to the part is greatly decreased a first but then greatly increased
with the ice massage. Exercise afterward may further heighten blood flow.
The patient will normally experience four stages during treatment:
1. Cold, uncomfortable sensation.
2. Burning
3. Aching of short duration
4. Relative numbness.
B. INDICATION
-- Joint pain such as bursitis
-- Muscle pain such as stains or myositis.
-- Acute neck or lower back pain.
C. CONTRAINDICATIONS
-- Patient is cold
-- Stroke.
-- Rheumatoid arthritis
--“Shoulder-hand syndrome.”
D. EQUIPMENT
1. Two pillows
2. Plastic sheet
3. Four thick towels.
4. One pair of mitts.
5. One or two pieces of ice the size of an ounce glass or small juice can.
E. PROCEDURE
Important Considerations
a. Do not prolong a rub directly over a bony prominence.
b. Be certain patient is warm; give a hot foot bath, if necessary.
Preparation for Treatment:
When treatment is to be given to the back, it
is recommended to have the patient lie face down with one pillow under the
abdomen, another pillow under the feet and a small towel under the head.
Treatment
a. Hold the ice block firmly with the mitt on one hand.
b. Rub ice in circular motion over painful area and slightly beyond on all
sides.
c. For the first few stokes, alternate rubbing with the ice and with you
bare hand, to reduce the shock of the cold on the skin.
d. When stage 4 (see Physiologic Effects) is reached, the treatment may be
terminated if acute pain relief is the object, or may be continued for 12-15
minutes if healing a sprain or strain is needed.
Completion of Treatment
a. Immediately following the ice massage, the patient should do carefully
planned resistive exercise involving every muscle around the painful part.
b. A second ice rub may be necessary for complete relief.