Cryotherapy is defined as cooling of definitive parts of the body by means of ice packs, ice cubes, ice water or ethylchloride sprays. It is used in the treatment of a range of conditions including spasticity and hypertonus of the muscles, soft tissue lesions, arthritises, edema and pain. The known physiological effects and clinical efficacy associated with cooling are considered. Further research i.e. randomized, controlled studies in the field of clinical application is high-lighted.