You will be frequently reminded to use ice, in combination with other pain control measures prescribed. Mix 1 part alcohol to 3 parts water and place in freezer. Refreeze after each use. It is not recommended that you use ice cubes or crushed ice. Do not use a terrycloth towel.
Towels absorb too much of the cold and make the ice application less effective.
Expose the area for ice application. Leave ice pack in place for at least 30 minutes with each use. The pain-relief mechanism is probably similar to that of ice packs. I press my palm against my face and clench my teeth for 10 to 15 seconds and let go fast. Some people, especially those with trigeminal neuralgia find that their facial pain is triggered by talking.