CRYOTHERAPY
Cryotherapy, commonly known as ice therapy is used for acute injuries or during the early phase of post-operation. The main aim of cryotherapy is to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Effects of Cryotherapy
Inflammation is part of the healing process of the body to heal its injured tissue. During the onset of injury, there is an increase of fluids and white blood cells to the injured area to provide tissue healing.
Application of Cryotherapy
Applying cryotherapy to the injured tissue reduces circulation and metabolic activity to the injured area. This is caused by a mechanism known as vasoconstriction, where the blood vessels constrict and reduce blood flow to the area. Thus, it reduces inflammation and swelling of the injured area. The cold temperature also numbs the skin temporarily, reducing pain at the initial phase.
How Can Cryotherapy Help You?
Often times, swelling can often be excessive during the acute phase of an injury. This can cause stiffness, pain, and reduced ability to activate the muscles. By reducing your pain and swelling, it will aid you with better movement and mobility of the affected area, allowing you to start moving and improving your function as early as possible. This can speed up the process of your recovery.
In post-op cases, there might be a lot of swelling in the initial phase. Using cryotherapy to reduce the swelling can improve your range and function as early as possible, allowing you to achieve your goals sooner.
In our clinic, we utilize a cold compress cuff around the affected area. As such, you will feel a cold sensation and compression around the area. The compression provides pressure around the area to keep the swelling under control. Also, the affected area will likely be elevated above your body level to further reduce the swelling.