Eli5 why do doctors say not to apply ice directly to the skin and to wrap in a towel but doctors also recommend athletes regularly take ice baths?

Question

Eli5 why do doctors say not to apply ice directly to the skin and to wrap in a towel but doctors also recommend athletes regularly take ice baths?

In: 5

Answer 1

Because it’s less painful to hold ice to your skin wrapped in a towel, therefore prolonging the time you can hold it to your skin.