yes. cold packs numb the sore area and reduce inflammation and swelling. ice packs are especially good for joint pain caused by an arthritis flare. you might also try using a local spray such as fluoromethane (nonflammable) on your back or painful area before and after exercise. this superficial cooling decreases muscle spasms and increases the threshold of pain. or you can make instant cold packs from frozen bags of vegetables. some patients prefer cold therapy to moist heat for arthritis pain while others tell of having the best relief when they alternate the sessions with moist heat and ice. you can experiment with moist heat and ice therapy and then select the method that gives the best relief with the least trouble or expense.
does cold therapy work for arthritis pain?