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How To

How to Use a Cold Compress

Contributor
By Sabah Karimi
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

A cold compress can be used to treat muscle aches and pains, and can even soothe a fever. If you are experiencing muscle pain, inflamed joints, boils or other forms of inflammation that are causing discomfort, a cold compress can reduce the pain and help you relax naturally. Cold compresses can be mixed with different types of essential oils for extra benefits. Here's how to apply a cold compress on any part of the body.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Small bowl
  • <br>Cold water
  • <br>Washcloth
  • <br>Bandage
  • <br>Small plastic bag
  • <br>Lavender essential oil
  1. Step 1

    Make the compress. Fold the washcloth down to a quarter of its original size and set aside.

  2. Step 2

    Prepare the compress solution. Pour cold water into bowl, then add a few drops of essential oil. Leave to stand until oil is mixed.

  3. Step 3

    Prepare the treatment area. Make sure the area where you need to apply the compress is clean.

  4. Step 4

    Prepare the compress. Dip the compress into the solution and wring out the excess water.

  5. Step 5

    Wrap the compress. Wrap the compress in the plastic bag, then prepare it for application.

  6. Step 6

    Apply the compress to the treatment area. Gently press the compress against the skin to be treated.

  7. Step 7

    Wrap up the area with bandages. Use the bandages to wrap the compress firmly against the skin so that the area will begin to cool naturally.

  8. Step 8

    Leave and secure in place. Leave the bandage and compress in place for at least five to 10 minutes. Re-arrange the bandage and compress in different places to reduce other areas of inflammation.

  9. Step 9

    Remove the compress. Remove the compress and dip it again in cold water when it reaches body temperature.

Tips & Warnings
  • Use two or more washcloths for larger treatment areas.
  • <br>Use multiple compresses with a larger bandage to prevent it from slipping out of place.
  • <br>Consider using different essential oils for various therapeutic properties.
  • <br>The plastic bag can be removed to treat swelling and general pain in the joints.
  • Serious cases of inflammation, swelling or bruising should be handled by a licensed medical practitioner.

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