The use of ice applied either directly or in a suitable container to cool an injured area. Ice therapy, at least in the first 24 to 48 hours after injury, is believed to be much more beneficial than heat in treating superficial bruises, contusions, and sprains. The application of cold or of ice water in immediate treatment of a burn helps to reduce the extent of inflammation and pain and reduce secondary cell death caused by hypoxia or enzymatic function. Ice therapy may also be used intermittently to reduce or control incisional, muscular, or joint pain.