Signs and symptoms of a stress fracture include pain during the activity that is relieved by rest, though occasionally a stress fracture will present sudden acute pain. Swelling may occur, especially after activity. Localized tenderness is almost always present over the fracture. Ice can numb the area and reduce pain and inflammation by constricting blood vessels to limit the blood supply at the injured area. Ice can be used to decrease muscle spasms.
Ice is recommended to use immediately after exercise if an area is painful or swollen.
The Protocol for acute treatment of musculoskeletal injuries is known by the acronym, RICE, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Ice should be applied for 15 minutes every two hours following the injury. Never apply ice to an already numbed area. Ice two or three times a day for general irritation. The elastic bandage should extend from the largest muscle area below the injury, to the largest group above the injury.