Cryotherapy, which is the application of ice, is an excellent way to help with the inflammation that sets in after an injury.  Ice is important because inflammation can set in rapidly and can delay healing if not managed properly.  Ice can also help with muscle spasms in the body. This therapy is well known to help numb painful areas as well as provide a cooling relief to affected soft tissues. The therapy consists of applying cold compresses on to the skin to effectively reduce the temperature of the skin as well as constrict the blood vessels in the area.
 

This therapy is rather inexpensive and is something that can be done at home as well as in the office.  Ice is applied 10-20 minutes every 1-2 hours.

Ice is contraindicated with anemia, severe hypertension, circulation complications and Raynaud's disease.