What is the primary purpose of a cold compress following an injury?

The primary purpose of a cold compress following an injury is to reduce pain and swelling. Applying cold to an injured area causes the blood vessels to constrict, which helps to diminish swelling by limiting the amount of blood that can flow to the injured tissue. This reduction in blood flow also helps to numb the area, alleviating pain. Cold compresses can be particularly effective in the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury occurs, making them a standard first-aid measure for sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries.

In contrast, a cold compress does not provide warmth, which would be counterproductive in the context of managing a recent injury. It also does not promote vasodilation or increase blood flow, as those actions would typically exacerbate swelling and pain rather than alleviate them.