Which description best defines ice massage?

• A. Overlapping and circular strokes until skin is numb.
• B. Long, straight strokes alternating with tapping.
• C. Static pressure applied for 15 minutes.
• D. Repeated compressions with a flat hand.

Answer: (D)

Ice massage is applied by repeated contact and compression of the tissue with a flat hand as you move it over the treatment area. This approach ensures direct, even transfer of cold to the skin and superficial tissues through small, continuous compressions, which produces rapid cooling and analgesia without relying on static, unmoving contact. The flat-hand, repetitive compression pattern is characteristic because it maximizes surface contact and control of pressure while you glide or rub across the area.

Compared with the other options, those describe different ways of applying cold or different modalities entirely—circular rubbing, long straight strokes with tapping, or a static cold application—which aren’t how ice massage is typically performed.