Apply a plastic bag of ice cubes and a cold moist towel immediately up to the first 12-18 hours. This will reduce the bleeding into the tissue. Elevate the part when possible above the level of the heart. Discomfort is always worse the second day and will gradually improve over the subsequent 7-10 days. After 24 hours, it is best to use hot, moist heat 2-3 times daily for 10-20 minutes at a time. It is best to use 2 heavy moist towels covered with plastic or soaking in a tub or hot water. A heating pad may supplement layers of hot towels.