Picks, for example, remedies for tension (11)
I believe the answer is:
icebreakers
I believe this is a double definition.
'picks for example' is the first definition.
(icepicks break up ice)
'remedies for tension' is the second definition.
(an icebreaker relieves social tension)
(Other definitions for icebreakers that I've seen before include "They serve to reduce tension" , "Vessels working in the Arctics" , "ships" .)