Mechanism of Action
How It Works
Ice therapy works by constricting blood vessels (vasoconstriction), which helps decrease inflammation and limit fluid buildup in injured tissues. It also slows nerve conduction, providing a natural numbing effect to reduce pain.
Best For
- Sprains, strains, muscle pulls
- Post-treatment soreness
- Flare-ups of chronic conditions
- Swelling and inflammation
- Joint pain (shoulder, knee, ankle, etc.)
What You'll Feel
Initial cold sensation → mild burning or tingling
Followed by numbness and pain relief
Typically very soothing once the area adapts
Session Time
Usually 8-10 minutes per area
Applied with cold packs or ice wraps during your visit
Contraindications
Ice therapy may not be appropriate for
Circulatory disorders (e.g., Raynaud’s disease)
Cold hypersensitivity or cold urticaria
Areas with impaired sensation or nerve damage
Open wounds (unless properly protected and directed)
Ice therapy at Goldsboro Spine Center, NC
At Goldsboro Spine Center, ice therapy (cryotherapy) is used as a simple yet powerful treatment to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling.