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fightingfan
25-01-2012, 10:53 AM
Hello Rosi

I've just in the middle of reading up on this via google. In the meantime was wondering
what you thought the pros and cons were of using ice packs to treat back pains etc?

Adam
Rosi
25-01-2012, 01:50 PM
Depends on the kind of back pain.

I generally advice ice for new, recent or recently aggravated injuries. Within the first 3-5 days it's probably your safest bet.

There aren't many side effects to watch out for. People with some kinds of circulation problems do need to be careful (Reynauds, for example), and never put ice directly on the skin (http://combatsportsclinic.com/2011/07/19/why-you-shouldnt-put-ice-directly-on-the-skin/).

For more chronic back problems, some people find that heat tends to ease the pain better than ice. I generally advise people to go with whatever feels better.

Other than that, try to stay as mobile as possible, while trying avoiding movements which cause a sharp or sudden aggravation of the pain.
fightingfan
25-01-2012, 10:46 PM
Was that ice or acid that went on the skin in the photo?

Seriously though, thanks for answering - the problem I've been having involve repeated aches and pains in the same areas.
Been trying to find new ways to prevent future occurences.
Rosi
26-01-2012, 09:44 AM
If it's a repeated problem, then you should probably see if there's something that's causing it. For some people, the right kind of core strength exercises as well as looking at sitting position / posture etc can be very useful.
Totti
26-01-2012, 12:23 PM
It is good as far as the pain is not that harmful or it is just muscle pain. If there is some bone involvement in it. You should not go for it.
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Rosi
26-01-2012, 08:34 PM
It is good as far as the pain is not that harmful or it is just muscle pain. If there is some bone involvement in it. You should not go for it.

Obviously, you should get the underlying problem seen to properly, and there are some people who shouldn't use ice (if you have circulation problems, for instance). But other than that, cold packs are a pretty safe choice.