How long should ice be applied?

Apply ice packs for 10–15 minutes every 3–4 hours. During icing, patients should check for any leakage and monitor the iced area for skin color and limb sensation. It is also important to note that patients must complete relevant X-ray examinations prior to icing to rule out complications such as fractures. Ice therapy should only be used when there is soft tissue injury, as it helps alleviate symptoms in such cases.