{"product_id":"6-5-x-9-5-cold-and-hot-therapy-gel-pack-reusable-ice-wrap-and-heat-pad-for-back-hip-or-shoulder-injury-recovery","title":"6.5\" x 9.5\" Cold and Hot Therapy Gel Pack - Reusable Ice Wrap and Heat Pad for Back, Hip, or Shoulder Injury Recovery","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWhy You Need This Reusable Hot and Cold Gel Pack\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBe proactive about pain relief by keeping a BraceAbility Reusable Hot and Cold Therapy Gel Pack on hand. Designed for both microwave and freezer use, this flexible gel pack offers a quick, convenient way to relieve discomfort anytime, anywhere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is so much confusion surrounding this topic, which is unfortunate because \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/blogs\/articles\/rice-treatment-acronym\"\u003eRICE treatment\u003c\/a\u003e combined with therapeutic icing and heating (cryotherapy and thermotherapy) is an effective, affordable, and safe self-treatment option for many common, painful problems including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArthritis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLower back pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMuscle sprains or strains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePulled or tight muscles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSwelling and inflammtion\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIf you’re struggling with lower back tightness, find out when a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/blogs\/articles\/ice-or-heat-for-low-back-pain\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eheated back brace\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e works best—and when it could make things worse.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo get the most out of temperature therapy, it’s important to understand when to use ice, when to use heat, and how contrast therapy may help. Keep reading to explore the benefits of each and learn how to choose the right solution for your pain.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIce vs. Heat Therapy: Which Is Best for My Pain?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most common questions when dealing with an injury or chronic pain is: Should I use ice or heat therapy? Understanding the difference can help you heal faster and feel better sooner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile both hot and cold therapy can be effective, they’re used for very different reasons. In some cases, alternating between the two—also known as contrast therapy—can provide optimal relief.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a general rule:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse cold therapy (ice) for acute injuries, inflammation, swelling, or pain that occurs suddenly—like sprains, strains, or bruising.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse heat therapy for chronic pain, muscle tension, stiffness, or soreness, especially in the lower back or neck.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"how to know when to use ice or heat for injuries, pain, cramping, or soreness\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0011\/7958\/2517\/files\/11b01-infographic-when-to-use-heat-or-ice-03.jpg?v=1535567597\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen Should I Use a Cold Compress\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e?\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen chilled, our flexible ice pack eases discomfort from acute injuries, sprains or strains, muscle soreness, spasms, bruises, swelling, and tension headaches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe use of ice, or very cold temperatures, in a medical manner is known as cryotherapy. It is effective because it causes your blood vessels to narrow (vasoconstriction). Your muscles contract, inflammation is lowered, and pain signals are reduced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the contrary, ice can make muscle tension and spasms worse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow to Use This Cold Therapy Gel Pack\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace flattened gel pack in freezer for 4 hours or more. Remains flexible when frozen.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrap in cloth towel or place in compatible brace, then apply to affected area.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse in 20 minutes increments or as medically prescribed. Allow skin to warm before reapplying.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReturn gel pack to freezer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow Heat Therapy Helps Pain and When to Use It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen warmed, our heating pad soothes pain caused by cramping, stiff necks, backaches, and arthritis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike ice, heat therapy is a vasodilator, increasing circulation by expanding your blood vessels. This increased blood flow draws nutrients and oxygen to the injured area, which aids the healing process and helps your body’s cells get rid of waste products.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike ice, heat can make inflammation and swelling worse so avoid hot therapy when treating an acute injury. Acute injuries are usually the result of a single, traumatic event, such as wrist fractures, ankle sprains, shoulder dislocations, and muscle strain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow to Use This Hot Compress Pack\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor best heating results, store at room temperature. If gel pack has been in freezer, remove and let it thaw to room temperature before heating.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace flattened gel pack in microwave and heat for 1 minute.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarefully check temperature, squeezing gel around to distribute heat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReheat in 30-second increments until desired temperature is reached.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrap in cloth towel or place in compatible brace, then apply to affected area. If gel pack feels uncomfortably hot, remove pack from body and reapply once it cools.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAlternating Ice and Heat Therapy\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes, choosing only ice or heat doesn’t provide enough relief, which is where contrast therapy comes in. Contrast therapy involves alternating applications of heat and ice to relieve pain associated with injury or overexertion. With this therapeutic method, you can simultaneously lessen puffiness, promote circulation, and loosen tight muscles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is usually achieved with a hot and cold bath, either dunking a limb or even immersing your entire body. However, a similar effect can also be achieved with two of our gel packs. Simply cycle between cold and hot therapy over a 20 to 30-minute period, with each application of an ice \/ heat lasting three to five minutes. End with an ice pack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"use ice and heat therapy alternating to relieve plantar fasciitis and arthritis\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0011\/7958\/2517\/files\/contrast-heat-ice-therapy-therapy-explanation-02.jpg?v=1536075341\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResearch shows contrasting is most effective for treating repetitive strain injuries, so the best candidates for contrasting are those who suffer from:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/blogs\/info\/plantar-fasciitis\"\u003ePlantar fasciitis\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAchilles tendinitis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShin splints\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRunner’s knee\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePatellofemoral pain syndrome\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarpal tunnel syndrome\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTennis elbow\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e5 Reasons Why People Love This Ice Wrap and Heat Pad for Injury Recovery and Pain Relief\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompatible Back Braces Are Available for Purchase\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/products\/elastic-neoprene-back-pain-brace\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/products\/elastic-neoprene-back-pain-brace\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"our neoprene compression back brace has a pocket for the hot and cold gel pack\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0011\/7958\/2517\/files\/gel-pack-neoprene-back-brace_11fc97ac-f720-4cf4-bc05-531a81469632_large.png?v=1536077831\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLooking for hands-free support? This pack can be used alone and wrapped in a towel, but it also can be inserted into the pocket of our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/products\/elastic-neoprene-back-pain-brace\"\u003eNeoprene Compression Back Brace\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/products\/herniated-disc-back-brace\"\u003eLSO Back Brace\u003c\/a\u003e. These braces are specifically designed to provide concentrated cold \/ hot therapy to your sore or injured back, with the added benefit of compressing and supporting your mid- to low-back. When considering other areas of the body, note that this pack can also be used in combination with an ace \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/products\/medical-bandage-wrap\"\u003emedical bandage wrap\u003c\/a\u003e or an \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/collections\/abdominal-supports\"\u003eabdominal binder\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.braceability.com\/products\/herniated-disc-back-brace\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"the heavy duty lso back brace from braceability can hold our heat and ice therapy pack\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0011\/7958\/2517\/files\/lso-back-brace-hot-pack_8ad47f3b-939d-4670-bcee-466e41d2cb68_large.png?v=1536077849\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRemains Flexible (Even When Frozen)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMicrowaveable and freezer-friendly, non-crystallizing gel allows the pack to remain soft and pliable when heated or chilled, contouring easily around your body’s joints and curves. For increased flexibility when frozen, store in the freezer for less time or allow it to thaw for a bit before use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNatural and Safe Pain Relief\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur premium, hot or cold compress is made with the best non-toxic, CMC gel. Natural and odorless, making it safe for all safe ages. Keep in mind that supervision is strongly advised when applying this product on kids, incapacitated adults, or elderly patients.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eReusable and Durable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEncased in puncture-resistant, medical-grade plastic, our gel pack features a smooth surface that’s easy to wipe clean after every use, ensuring hassle-free, hygienic recovery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLong Lasting for Extended Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFilled with medical-grade, non-toxic gel, our hot and cold compress is designed to retain therapeutic temperatures longer, providing consistent relief during extended treatment sessions—whether you're icing an injury or applying heat for muscle tension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"the reusable gel pack is heavy duty so the gel won't come out\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0011\/7958\/2517\/files\/11b01-benefits-of-heat-ice-pack-09.jpg?v=1536077152\"\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions About This Ice Pack \u0026amp; Hot Compress\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWhat conditions \/ injuries does this cold or hot therapy gel pack treat?\u003c\/b\u003e When warmed, our heating pad soothes pain caused by cramping, stiff necks, backaches, and arthritis. When chilled, our flexible ice pack eases discomfort from acute injuries, sprains or strains, muscle soreness, spasms, bruises, swelling, and tension headaches.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eHow does it work?\u003c\/b\u003e Heat therapy works by improving circulation and blood flow to a sore area, soothing discomfort and relaxing tense muscles. Cold therapy works by reducing blood flow to a particular area, which can significantly reduce inflammation and swelling that causes pain, especially around a joint or a tendon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWho can use it?\u003c\/b\u003e Made of medical-grade, non-toxic gel, it’s safe for all ages. Supervision is strongly advised when applying this product on children, incapacitated adults, or elderly patients. Also, use caution when heating, as the gel can get very hot. Overheating could cause the gel pack to rupture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWhen should I use it?\u003c\/b\u003e Use ice pack following an acute injury and heat pad for chronic injuries. Always follow your physician’s or healthcare professional’s specific treatment instructions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWhat is it made of?\u003c\/b\u003e Non-toxic, latex-free gel pack is composed of carbomethylcellulosesodium, water, and glycerol.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWhat are the dimensions of this gel pack?\u003c\/b\u003e At 6.5 by 9.5 inches, our reusable gel pack is big enough to cover large areas of your body, such as your back, knee, chest, abdomen, hip, or thigh.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eCold Therapy Instructions:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace flattened gel pack in freezer for 4 hours or more. Remains flexible when frozen.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrap in cloth towel or place in compatible brace, then apply to affected area.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse in 20 minutes increments or as medically prescribed. Allow skin to warm before reapplying.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReturn gel pack to freezer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHot Therapy Instructions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor best heating results, store at room temperature. If gel pack has been in freezer, remove and let it thaw to room temperature before heating.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace flattened gel pack in microwave and heat for 1 minute.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarefully check temperature, squeezing gel around to distribute heat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReheat in 30-second increments until desired temperature is reached.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrap in cloth towel or place in a compatible brace, then apply to affected area. If gel pack feels uncomfortably hot, remove pack from body and reapply once it cools.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWashing Instructions:\u003c\/b\u003e Wipe gel pack with a damp cloth or disinfecting wipe.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOther features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrowavable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFreezer safe\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNon-toxic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLatex-free\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReusable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlexible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eColor:\u003c\/b\u003e Blue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n                    .jenni-placeholder {\n                        pointer-events: none;\n                        user-select: none;\n                        color: #323DEF;\n                        opacity: 0.6;\n                    }\u003c\/style\u003e","brand":"BraceAbility","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49596062564611,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0834\/6288\/1539\/files\/11B01-reusable-medical-gel-hot-cold-pack.png?v=1788986606","url":"https:\/\/hardheat.com\/products\/6-5-x-9-5-cold-and-hot-therapy-gel-pack-reusable-ice-wrap-and-heat-pad-for-back-hip-or-shoulder-injury-recovery","provider":"Hard Heat","version":"1.0","type":"link"}