Properly applied ice is used to manage pain due to acute injuries or flare-ups of a chronic condition. Ice reduces the temperature of the tissues directly on or below the surface of the skin. Surface cooling numbs painful areas, constricts blood vessels and helps relax muscle spasms. Cold temperatures reduce nerve transmission of painful areas and provide temporary relief. Cooling the affected tissues is effective in preventing or reducing post-traumatic swelling and inflammation.

Appropriate forms of ice include ice packs, ice cubes in a bag, or even frozen peas, corn, or french fries. Make sure to wrap the ice in a paper towel. It is recommended to use ice for 20 (twenty) minutes at a time with at least one hour between applications. Dr. Berger usually recommends using ice over heat. If you are not sure which to use, always choose ice first. You can always use heat if the ice is not helpful. Always ask Dr. Berger for additional recommendations.