Ice Burns

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

I've been using ice packs (gel packs you freeze) for 30 years on my lower back/upper butt area. I've been falling asleep with them and/or using them till they're warm. I've never had anything like this that happened last Sat or Sun. 4 layers of frozen gel packs = one large (palm size) ice burn that required Dr's attention. Of course she said, "you can't do that!", to which I said, "I've been doing that for decades". Holy Moly! Yes, I did have clothes (underwear and thin cotton nightgown) between the ice packs and skin. Today, I can for sure say it will be fine. Dr told me to take daily photos and send them to her. Today is the first day I haven't been in pain. Just because you've been doing something for years, doesn't mean it can't jump up and bite you

SilleeMee · ‎05-22-2016

The older you get, the thinner your skin becomes and that means it's more susceptible to injuries.

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

@SilleeMee

I thought about that, after it happened.

CJC · ‎03-11-2010

I've been suffering from my first ever sciatica attack from a herniated disc, and I bought a gel pack set on the big A that includes both a cold pack that goes in freezer and a warm pack for microwave. Each of these can fit into the included wide belt that fits around waist so that the pack sits right on lower back area. The belt has a type of fabric on outside so that the ice pack or hot pack never actually touches skin. When I have knee replacement I'm going to order one of those ice machines that uses frozen water bottles. They have wrap around pads for pretty much every part of body and most have timer feature.

wagirl · ‎03-09-2010

I hate ice packs!!!! I know it is neccessary but I hate them. Can't stand to be cold.

rockygems123 · ‎06-04-2012

@CJC wrote:
I've been suffering from my first ever sciatica attack from a herniated disc, and I bought a gel pack set on the big A that includes both a cold pack that goes in freezer and a warm pack for microwave. Each of these can fit into the included wide belt that fits around waist so that the pack sits right on lower back area. The belt has a type of fabric on outside so that the ice pack or hot pack never actually touches skin. When I have knee replacement I'm going to order one of those ice machines that uses frozen water bottles. They have wrap around pads for pretty much every part of body and most have timer feature.

@CJC @monicakm

I did the same thing when I had a broken ankle, ordered a wrap around gel pack from Amazon that worked super well.

Didn't get too cold on my skin but gave a lot of relief.

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

@rockygems123

I am a firm believer in frozen gel packs for pain. It's instant pain relief but my husband can't tolerate cold therapy.

Of the gel packs I have tried, these are my favorites. They come in many sizes and shapes. This one is big enough for my entire back.

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

@CJC

That is where my pain comes from too. I've had some relief the last few weeks and then over the weekend it flared up again. I'd like to share this product with you. I learned about it 2 years ago from a neighbor. I was in quite a bit of pain at the time would have tried anything. I got it from Amazon and it works great! It uses acupressure. It wraps around your leg. There is a round metal disc inside that you position on the outside of your leg right below the knee. The first time I used it, we were getting ready to go out for dinner and I was in some serious pain from sciatica. I put it on walked out of my bedroom into the kitchen before it dawned on me that I was walking with no pain. 3.9 stars with 18,743 reviews. $25

monicakm · ‎03-16-2010

@wagirl

You're not alone. My husband hates them too.

gizmogal · ‎05-09-2014

When I have needed to use an ice pack I always wrapped it in a dish towel and never put it directly on my skin. The cold reached the right places and provided its benefits without injury to me. Also, ice packs are meant to be used in intervals, not to be applied non stop such as when you sleep. The usual practice is 20 minutes on and 20 minutes or more off. Leaving ice on any area for long intervals is not recommended, even if wrapped in a towel to prevent direct contact.

I hope your pains relent and you are more comfortable and able to relax very soon. Constant or chronic pain is so distracting and upsetting. Wishing you good health.