Many patients ask about using ice as a therapy for injuries. [Somehow] there is still ongoing research continuing to examine its effectiveness, but here is my current position:
Ice can effectively reduce pain through its numbing effect on the injured area. However, it's important to understand that ice therapy does not appear to significantly impact healing time or reduce inflammation.
For pain management, ice remains a reasonable first-line option. Consider trying ice therapy before turning to NSAIDs or more invasive interventions like surgery. Alternative pain management strategies that may be equally or more effective include:
-Heat therapy
-Gentle movement within pain limits
-Isometric exercises—i.e holding a position against resistance
Given the typically limited duration and frequency of ice application, there appears to be minimal risk of adverse effects from regular use, so long as there is no visible signs that you're damaging the skin in a frostbite like fashion.
Bottom line: If you find that ice helps manage your pain, feel free to use it. The simplicity and accessibility of ice therapy, combined with its low risk profile, makes it a practical option for temporary pain relief, but it is unlikely to provide much in the way towards healing any damaged tissue.
That's why in our office we offer and recommend state-of-the-art laser therapy as part of first line treatment to any kind of pain resulting from tissue damage. The specific and highly concentrated lightwaves produced by the laser help those damaged cells heal faster, so that you can sooner get back to doing the things you love to do without pain.
Isaiah Petersen
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