Intense cold can damage the skin such as an ice pack burn. When an ice pack is used to treat muscle sprains or strains, direct exposure of the pack on the skin must be avoided. The freezing temperature of the ice pack that is directly placed on the skin can lead to limited areas of damaged tissues or frostbite. An ice pack burn can be prevented by applying a cloth or towel between the pack and the skin.
Warming of the skin
You should initially warm the area that came in direct contact with the ice pack. This prevents the ice pack burn or frostbite from becoming severe in which the blood vessels are damaged.
When an ice pack burn develops, it is indicated by evident symptoms such as:
- Blisters
- Skin is yellowish-gray in appearance
- Skin feels numb, painful or itchy with a burning sensation
Restoring the normal body temperature should be a steady procedure to avoid burning that can lead to further damage.
You should soak the affected limb in warm water, apply a warm compress or wrap the individual with blankets to restore sensation in the area. If a warm soak is chosen, it should be at the temperature of at least 104 degrees F. In most cases, a 20-minute soak is enough but the ice pack burn starts to tingle and turn reddish in color as the skin thaws out.
Blister care
A blister is an indication of an ice pack burn. The treatment of the blisters will reduce the risk for infection and other complications. The removal of the excess tissue from the blister will allow the doctor to properly dress the wound. This might result to an open wound due to incorrect use of an ice pack.
It should be treated just like any other wound using antibiotic ointments, gauze bandages and petroleum jelly to keep the site moist and reduce the risk for infection. If the affected area is wide, the dressings should be changed regularly for up to 10 days.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on ice pack burn is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage an ice pack burn, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.