The difference between the cold pack and hot pack uses depends on the injury you’re treating. Hot and cold compression packs work by increasing blood flow to an area to decompress cramping and aid mobility, whereas cold therapy restricts blood flow to reduce swelling. Here’s how to use a hot and cold pack.
Store the reusable hot and cold pack in the freezer to be ready to use in the case of an injury. Approximately 1 hour is required to freeze the gel.
Tip: If you want to keep your hot and cold pack un-frozen and ready for either hot or cold therapy, consider adding an instant ice pack to your first aid kit. An instant ice pack uses endothermic reactions to cool down immediately when you squeeze it. Then simply pop your cold pack in the freezer and use the instant pack while you wait for it to cool down.
Microwave: place the hot and cold compress gel pack into the microwave for approximately 30 seconds at high temperature. Check that the correct temperature has been reached by feeling the pack. If not, further exposure should be in 15-second intervals.
CAUTION: DO NOT OVERHEAT. Times are based on a 600W microwave. Adjust heating times accordingly to suit the power of your microwave.
On the hob: bring some water to a boil. Remove the pan from the heat, and immerse the gel pack in the pan for approximately 4–10 minutes. After 4 minutes, check the temperature of the pack by feeling it. Check every 1 minute to see if the correct temperature has been reached.