Shoulder injuries that cause pain and swelling can be treated with ice packs to reduce inflammation. Typically, ice therapy is applied to the injured shoulder with a bag, cooler, wrap or pack that contains a frozen substance (typically water).
To achieve shoulder pain relief, apply ice packs for between 10 and 40 minutes. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to prevent direct contact with the skin. Remember, too, that the medical condition known as “frozen shoulder” requires heat instead of cold to relieve shoulder pain.
Patients can purchase ice packs, cold gels, ice bag wraparounds, and cryo coolers from a variety of medical suppliers. Home remedies including using a frozen bag of peas or adding ice cubes to a plastic bag or baggie.
