Stress fractures need rest for 2 to 4 months. Cold will reduce pain and swelling and promote healing. Don't wrap it too tightly, because doing so can cause more swelling. Elevate the injured area on pillows while you apply ice and anytime you are sitting or lying down. Try to keep the injury at or above the level of your heart to help minimize swelling.
Some experts recommend going back and forth between heat and cold treatments.
A general rule is to splint from a joint above the suspected fracture to a joint below it. Your doctor will provide you with a splint or cast that is appropriate for the specific joint and the type of injury. Remove all rings immediately if the sprain is to a finger or part of the hand. Swelling is likely to occur, making removal of the ring more difficult or impossible later. Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or ketoprofen may help ease inflammation and pain.