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September 7, 2001
Article # 3 (Read about the series) - Download PDF
WHAT IS CRYOTHERAPY?
By Kristin Curry, BA,COTA/L
The Greek word "cryos" means cold. Cryotherapy has been used for hundreds of years. It is the therapeutic use of cold applied to the body. Application of an
ice pack can reduce swelling, pain and muscle spasms associated with an acute injury.
WHEN TO USE ICE?
Ice should be used immediately after sustaining an injury. Ice can be used to reduce swelling in the first 24 - 48 hours after sustaining an injury and to reduce post exercise pain. Many high school athletes do not report injuries to their parents, coaches or athletic trainers. They attempt to run through pain hoping it will get better on its own... Big Mistake. This can lead to further injury as the body compensates during a workout, (i.e., altered running style or limping) or pain can cause a stoppage in training. (Stay tuned to this web site for another article about how to continue training and improve stamina when injured and heal at the same time.) Please inform your parents, athletic trainer, coach and physician if you are injured or develop pain while running. Early treatment is a key to healing as quickly as possible.
WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT?
Once a cold pack is applied expect the following stages: skin becomes very cold and red, followed by a burning sensation, aching and finally analgesia, the reduction of pain. During the final stage of analgesia it is important to keep activities to a minimum to avoid injuring the area as a result of feeling reduced pain once the cold pack is removed. Icing can be done once every hour as long as the skin has returned to its normal temperature.
CRYOTHERAPY APPLICATION
Cold packs and ice massage are two examples of cryotherapy:
1) A cold pack may be used to cover a joint or muscle and should be left on the body between 10 - 15 minutes. If you do not have a cold pack, use frozen peas or corn. Some cold packs or a bag of frozen vegetables should not be applied directly to the skin. It is best to wrap a towel or a pillowcase around the injured area, and then apply.
2) The ice massage may be applied to smaller injury areas. An ice cup may be prepared by filling a small paper cup with water and freezing it. Tear the upper cup edge away and slowly rub ice in small circles over the injury for 4-5 minutes. Generally, if the injured area is greater than 6 inches by 6 inches, you're better off using a gel pack.
PRECAUTIONS
You should never exceed the above recommended amount of time for application of ice since this can actually increase the swelling as a result of blood returning to the area to warm the tissue because it has been cold for too long. Also, you should monitor the area for itching, sweating or raised bumps with red borders known as wheals. Any of these symptoms may be an indication you are allergic to ice. Never ice an area that has had frostbite. Check with your athletic trainer, physical or occupational therapist or physician before using ice to insure proper use.
Ice should be brought to every practice. It is a great way to reduce pain and swelling. It is readily available, inexpensive, easy to use, and it works! Don't train through pain!
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and this information is presented without any warranty whatsoever. Before
making any change to training or treatment, or otherwise taking any action
in reliance on the information presented, an athlete should consult with
his or her parents, coach and physician.
For more information, or with questions, please email:
PaulR@PainRelief-PT.com
