Why does BoneSmart recommend icing for longer periods of time than my Physical Therapist?

Icing for up to twenty minutes several times a day is what most of us have been advised to do following an injury. Some therapists may even recommend this after joint replacement surgery, but with this type of surgery, ice is a critical part of pain management and should be used in different ways than when recovering from an injury. Ice not only on the joint, but any surrounding areas of discomfort. Always place a towel between your skin and the ice source to prevent freezer burn and ice as much as you like. Icing helps bring relief from the soft tissue trauma and internal swelling. Icing is a great natural pain reliever and best of all, it’s free. While some care providers may put a maximum time on icing, others suggest you ice as often as you see fit. Icing after therapy, exercises, or prolonged activity that challenge ROM and endurance should help ease any discomfort, or may keep pain at bay. You can find relief through icing for weeks to months post op.