This minimizes the danger of swelling and tissue damage by slowing the pace of inflammation. It also numbs irritated tissues, functioning as a topical anesthetic, and inhibits the transmission of pain sensations to the brain. Ice can be used to treat a swollen, inflammatory joint or muscle. It works best within 48 hours of an injury. Adding heat to cold treatments increases their effectiveness. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends that patients with acute injuries such as sprains or strains avoid using ice packs because it may prevent blood from reaching injured muscles and could cause additional damage. Patients should instead use heat or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling after an injury has healed. Studies have shown that applying ice to injured muscles for several days after a trauma can reduce pain and promote faster healing. Ice may also help relieve pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis by reducing swelling and temperature differences between your skin and bone. However, ice baths are not recommended for people who suffer from heart conditions or those who are pregnant. Anyone who is obese may require more ice than normal to feel its benefits, and those who are elderly or experience dementia may not be able to evaluate how much ice to apply. Whether you're trying to reduce pain or increase mobility, ice can be a useful tool for when you need it. However, it's important to understand its limitations so it doesn't harm your health.