Is it safe to take a full-body ice bath?

Question

I'm sore from neck to toe and was wondering if it was safe (like with body temperature and such) to take an ice bath that engulfed me from neck to toe. Thank you for your answers

Answer 1

an ice bath might be ok for a couple minutes... but not long enough to actually do any good for  your injuries. take Ibuprofen to help with the swelling and inflammation. then I'd use ice packs on the worst parts, especially at pin points and joints. 30min on... 60 off. you can make your own too with freezer bags, doubled and 1part rubbing alcohol and 3 parts water, or two parts water which ever is your preference. the alcohol keeps it mushy.

when you get an injury it tends to make more hurt than just the injured spot... example... you hurt your knee and your whole leg hurts. well if you take care of the knee the rest of your leg will feel better.

relax... get some movies... and hang out for a little while to help yourself heal.  

Answer 2

Yes you can take an ice bath. Expect the first time to be a real shocker, but once you are in there for the first couple of minutes you will get used to it. Only do it for no longer than 10 minutes each time and some tricks:

As the bath is filling up with cold water, put a sweatshirt on your upper body

Make coffee or hot tea to drink while submerged

Wear a watch, your sense of time will be seriously warped.

Dump the ice in just before you get in. I use the whole ice makers worth. (But warn your significant other before taking all the ice)

You only need enough water to cover to your waist. Really.

Afterwards, do not start your shower water at the normal settings. Start much, much cooler. You'll be suprised how hot it will seem.

Answer 3

I would assume it's safe as long as you're careful not to get too cold.

Take your temperature every couple of minutes. If your body temperature starts getting below 97 degrees F, get out and warm up.

Answer 4

I would call a local gym and ask them. It is always wise to get answers from professionals.

Good luck!

Al

Answer 5

I don't know about that.. but i know ice can be treated for minor bruises etc... (ice causes blood vessels to contract/shrink, to prevent further blood leakage)

All that the ice is going to do is make you feel cold and i think you should take a warm bath instead to relax your muscles..

This is just my opinion. take care!

By the way... change from normal body temp to cold temperate such as a ice bath can cause your lungs to contract making you feel uncomfortable.. if you want to take a ice bath, don't make the water too cold.

Answer 6

maybe your body reacted to the extreme changes of the temperature