Why is it important to stop the swelling when you injure something? Can if have longterm implications if you dont?
Yes, there can be long term problems. If you get hit on a large muscle group (thighs or even calfs) and fluid starts to accumulate under the muscle there is potential long term problem because calcium can start to build up in the gap. This is what ended the career of Cam Neely (a hockey player).
Ice reduces swelling. Less swelling means less pain.
Yes, but pain is generally a short term issue.