Ice. A homemade or store-bought ice pack applied to the injured area can reduce pain and swelling. Use it for 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute pauses in between. Make sure a layer of cloth or other material is between the ice and your skin to protect you from frostbite.
• Compression. A neoprene support or elastic bandage can promote recovery and reduce swelling. Make sure the wrap isn’t so tight that the skin becomes cool or blue.