Cryotherapy (ice bath)
Cryotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses controlled cold application to accelerate recovery and reduce pain and inflammation.
Cryotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses controlled cold application to accelerate recovery and reduce pain and inflammation. It involves the direct application of cold devices—such as ice, ice packs, or cooling gels—to the skin, specifically targeting localized areas of discomfort or injury.
This form of cold therapy primarily acts on the skin and underlying tissues by slowing blood flow to the affected region. Following injury, the body’s natural response often includes increased blood circulation, inflammation, and swelling as part of the healing process. By reducing blood flow to the injured area, cryotherapy helps minimize swelling, alleviate pain, and limit tissue damage, thereby promoting faster recovery.
In addition to localized treatment, cryotherapy may also involve whole-body exposure to extremely cold temperatures within a specialized cryotherapy chamber. Known as whole-body cryotherapy, this advanced method is used to support systemic recovery, reduce muscle soreness, enhance circulation, and promote overall physical well-being.
Cryotherapy is commonly used in physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, and post-injury recovery programs to manage acute injuries, control inflammation, and support optimal healing, making it a valuable modality in modern rehabilitation care.
