What are the Different Types of Ice Wraps?

Ice wraps are cold compresses that wrap around different parts of the body so that those using cold therapy to heal from an injury can move around easily. There are ice wraps available for nearly every body part, including ones large enough to wrap around the entire back or shoulder for pain relief. Arm, knee, wrist, and head wraps are usually medium sized, while neck, head, and face wraps are typically smaller, lighter, and sometimes even stylish.

The largest ice wraps on the market are usually the ones that wrap around the back, as they are typically wide bands of material that encase either liquid that freezes easily, or a separate bag of ice. There is also a type of back wrap that is made especially for the lower back, as it provides extra support. Shoulder wraps are also usually large, but are typically composed of a strap that is meant to go diagonally across the chest, wrapping around one underarm and stretching across to the opposite shoulder. This allows the part that holds the ice to rest securely on the top of the shoulder. It is also possible to find a shoulder wrap that holds ice against both shoulders at the same time, which is usually good for sore muscles.

Wraps for the arms, legs, wrists, and hands are quite popular since there are so many injuries that can occur in the limbs. Arm wraps are usually simple bands of material that wrap around the upper or lower arm, while leg wraps are similar but typically much larger. Some injuries are in areas that require flexibility, such as the elbows, knees, ankles, and wrists, which is why there are ice wraps available that offer more elasticity than the stiffer arm or leg wraps. Finally, hand wraps often resemble gloves with the finger coverings cut off, while foot wraps are usually just small bands of material that wrap around, similar to arm and leg ice wraps.

Injuries to the head, neck, or face often require smaller ice wraps since the entire face should not be covered. Therefore, neck wraps are often made of slim bands of material that wrap around the neck like a scarf. In fact, some resemble stylish bandannas so that soreness can be healed even in public. There are also wraps that look like helmets for the top of the head, as well as ice wraps that fit perfectly over the eyes to help reduce sinus pain.