Cooling an injury like a sprain or bruise can help to reduce the swelling and pain. There are two types of compress: ice packs, and cold pads, which can be made from dampening a cloth with cold water.
How to use a cold compress or ice pack
Dr Lynn Thomas, OStJ, BSc, MB.BS, MA, FRCPClinically reviewed: 28/04/2025
Cooling an injury like a sprain or bruise can help to reduce the swelling and pain. Find out how to use two types of cold compress.
What is a cold compress?
How to use a cold pad
- 1
Soak a clean cloth or flannel in cold water. Then wring it out lightly and fold into a pad.
Hold it firmly against the injured area.
- 2
Re-soak the cloth every couple of minutes to keep it cool.
Do not cool the injury for more than 20 minutes.
How to use a ice pack
- 1
Use a pack of frozen vegetables or partly fill a plastic bag using small ice cubes or crushed ice. Wrap the bag in a dry cloth.
- 2
Hold the pack on the injury and top up with ice to keep it cool.
Do not cool the injury for more than 20 minutes.
