Is this news to anyone? Ice reduces inflammation. Why take drugs and make your kidneys and liver pay for (otherwise untreated) knee pain? I believe that everyone should have a good ice pack at the ready!
Remember the adage: RICE? Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. I’ve talked on this blog about the importance of compression and I carry a compression bandage in my hiking pack – always. I’ve helped many a hiker with this simple, essential piece of gear. But when I get home, it’s ice for my knee. When I ice, I don’t hurt. When I don’t, I often am uncomfortable the next day. I have to remember to ice because I don’t hurt until the next day.
I’ve looked long and hard and have tried many ice packs. I got this one recently and LOVE it. It’s great for knees, wrists, elbows, ankles, feet (plantar fasciitis), even a shoulder. When I first pull it out of the freezer, it’s a bit hard, but it softens quickly and stays cold longer than most. This particular pack comes with 2 ice packs and one compression sleeve (which has a good wide compression strap. It’s less than $3 for an additional pack making this a really good value.
Under the ice pack link is a link for a Velcro compression bandage (2 pack – one for your pack, one for home). Compress an injury quickly (and lightly – not too tightly) to prevent swelling, reduce pain, provide support.
Lastly, don’t forget the compression bandage is in your pack – USE IT. If you can get an injury cleaned and compressed, it can make a HUGE difference. Check with your favorite medical professional or even search around the web if you’re not familiar with the benefits and methods of compression. Most medical kits I’ve looked at do not have this most essential item.
As always, order from the links on this blog. It supports the blog and costs you nothing. Anything you purchase after clicking thru from the blog results in a (very teeny tiny) commission – it’s called affiliate marketing and it helps support providing quality info to people who love being outside! Thanks Hikers & Walkers!
