Cryotherapy

PATIENT BENEFITS

  • Helps reduce swelling and inflammation
  • Numbs affected area to reduce pain
  • Reduces muscle spasm
  • Inexpensive and can be self applied

WHAT IS CRYOTHERAPY

Cryotherapy is a term that describes the application of ice to reduce the temperature of tissues directly on or below the surface of the skin.

HOW DOES IT WORK

Surface cooling constricts blood vessels, numbs painful areas and helps relax muscle spasms. Cold temperatures reduce nerve transmission of painful symptoms and provides temporary relief.

WHEN IS CRYOTHERAPY USED

Ice is most often used to manage acute injuries or recent eruptions of chronic conditions. Cooling affected tissues is effective in reducing and preventing post traumatic swelling. Local cooling should be applied several times a day during the initial stages of the injury.