Being a college student low on cash and time, I bought an ACE wrap that Velcros around my knee and has a built-in pocket for an ice pack. Not as snazzy, but at least I can move around while wearing it.
My favorite icing solution however, requires time to make and elevate your injury but all you need is:
- Water
- Rubbing alcohol
- Two Ziploc bags
Create a solution that is two parts water and one part rubbing alcohol in the plastic bag and seal it. After doubling the bag with the second Ziplock and sealing it, lay your concoction in the freezer. After about nine hours, it turns into a cool gel that you can place in a pillow case liner and set on your injury of choice. This formula was passed on by my physical therapist, and is much preferable to rocky, melting ice cubes resting on your aching joint. You may have to adjust the formula if it comes out too icy or liquified.
Icing your injuries can shrink inflammation and numb the pain, but if you have a busy schedule it can be tricky setting aside the 10 to 20 minutes needed to ice effectively. So the Moji fabric ice wraps are a great solution, if you have money to spend. The moji knee and moji back wrap give you cold compression via cold cells wrapped in an absorbent fabric that conform to your body. The structure aids in absorbing the wetness normally associated with icing, so you can wear them under your clothes and walk around no problem. At $85 to $95 dollars a pop,reports fitsugar, these icing tools may lighten your wallet. Still, they can be great for long-lasting injuries, such as runner's knee or chronic back pain.
Thanks for the tip on alcohol/water ice substitute. We have been just putting up with the knobby cubes for years. Good Job!
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