Cryotherapy is the application of cold to treat pain or other conditions. People often use cryotherapy at home for minor conditions such as sprains. It is also employed in healthcare settings, such as treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in physical therapy or reduction of fever in a hospital. It is sometimes incorporated into other treatments, such as hydrotherapy (water therapy).

The term also refers to the application of extreme cold, usually by means of liquid nitrogen, to destroy tissue. This type of cryotherapy is also known as cryosurgery, cryoablation or targeted cryoablation. It is sometimes used to treat skin lesions, such as warts or skin tags, or certain types of precancerous and cancerous conditions.

Cold may be applied in a variety of ways, such as ice and cold baths. Applying cold reduces the temperature of an affected area, restricts blood vessels and prevents fluids from leaking into the surrounding tissues. This may reduce pain and swelling.

Cold decreases the sensitivity of nerve endings, resulting in a numbing sensation. This both distracts the patient from thinking about the pain and increases the pain threshold. Ice therapy also decreases tissue damage by decreasing swelling.

Heat is also sometimes used to treat chronic pain, but opinions differ as to which method works best. Heat increases blood flow to the muscles and makes connective tissue more elastic, thereby relieving joint stiffness. Among factors considered when determining whether to use heat or cold therapy are convenience and the patient’s preference.