To find out when to use heat or ice for a specific injury go to the Mayo Clinic or National Institutes of Health. They have reliable up-to-date information and recommended resources for more research.
Maine Warmers makes a soft flannel case to hold a one pound bag of frozen peas and has an adjustable strap to hold it in place. No need to be bothered with holding onto it to keep it from sliding to the floor. See their Mainely Ice Pack.
After thawing and refreezing a bag of frozen peas it seems best not to cook and eat them. But if they are stored in the freezer inside the flannel pouch then they’ll be ready to cool you on a hot summer day, to ease the pain or itch of an insect bite, or to help sooth a mild burn.
If putting cold peas on an injury feels too harsh then one may purchase an insert of whole corn filling to use instead of the peas. The water content in whole corn has been reduced, therefore the filling will not get as cold as frozen peas (or frozen corn).
Whole corn has the versatility of being able to go in the microwave and provide heat after the swelling has
gone down. Mainely Ice may be purchased with a whole corn-filled insert that weighs about 1 and 1/2 lb.
Heat therapy will help relax tight muscles, improve flexibility, and aid in stimulating circulation.
Whole corn will not pop in the microwave and does not require added fragrances – unlike rice socks. Microwave heat packs are more convenient than conventional electric heating pads and hot water bottles.
Check out Maine Warmers Mainely Ice Packs.
