Cryotherapy is a treatment used to freeze or deaden a nerve that is irritated and causing pain. It can be used to block pain from several different nerves including the intercostal nerve. During the procedure a needle or probe is inserted into the affected area and the temperature is dropped down to freezing. The freezing temperatures inactivate the nerve and the irritation is relieved. The area injected might feel numb or tingling after the procedure, but these sensations are usually only temporary. This procedure is not repeated frequently since the nerve pain should be relieved. The patient will follow up with the doctor after the procedure to determine the degree of effectiveness.