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Cold Packs for Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is a disease affecting joints and muscles. Inflammation often causes arthritis swelling and pain. According to the Arthritis Foundation, cold treatments may be a quick and effective way to numb the painful area and reduce swelling that causes the pain.

  1. Cold Pack

    • Make a cold pack by chilling a drugstore gel cold pack, wrapping an ice bag in a towel or folding a towel around a bag of frozen vegetables.

    Time Frame

    • Apply the cold pack to the affected area for up to 10 minutes.

    Inspect

    • Remove the cold pack and look for red skin, hives or small blisters that may indicate the cold pack was used too long.

    Flex

    • Gently move the joint to reduce stiffness and return circulation to the skin.

    Wait

    • Allow skin to return to its normal temperature and color before using the cold pack again.

    Caution

    • If white or blotchy red skin patches remain after a few minutes, this may indicate skin damage from too much cold exposure. Do not use heat or cold packs until skin returns to normal.

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