How should an ice pack be properly applied to a treatment area?

Applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel for 15-20 minutes is the correct approach because it ensures proper cooling of the treatment area while minimizing the risk of skin damage. Direct application of ice can lead to frostbite or irritation on the skin, as the extreme cold can cause tissues to become too cold too quickly. Wrapping the ice pack allows for a buffer that protects the skin from direct contact while still delivering therapeutic benefits, such as reducing inflammation and numbing pain in the area.

The recommendation of 15-20 minutes is based on research that indicates this duration is effective for cooling tissues without causing adverse effects. This timeframe allows the treatment to be effective while still being safe for skin and underlying tissues.

Other approaches, such as leaving the ice pack on until the area feels numb, can lead to overcooling, resulting in damage instead of therapeutic benefits. Likewise, the idea of applying heat before icing is not standard practice; typically, ice is used for acute injuries and inflammation, while heat is utilized for chronic pain or stiffness, making it less relevant in this context.