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Cryotherapy Principles

Cryotherapy Principles. Most common means of cold therapy Ice packs Ice immersion Wet ice is a more effective coolant due to the energy required to melt ice Cold whirlpool Ice towel Ice massage. Physiological Principles Vasoconstriction Decreases extent of secondary tissue death

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Cryotherapy Principles

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  1. Cryotherapy Principles • Most common means of cold therapy • Ice packs • Ice immersion • Wet ice is a more effective coolant due to the energy required to melt ice • Cold whirlpool • Ice towel • Ice massage

  2. Physiological Principles • Vasoconstriction • Decreases extent of secondary tissue death • Decreases cell metabolic rate • Decreases the need for oxygen • Results in less tissue damage • Decreased swelling from inflammatory response • Decreases muscle spasm • Decreases pain • Cold is more penetrating than heat • Decreases muscle fatigue

  3. Special Considerations • Avoid overcooling • Some individuals are allergic to cold and react with • Hives • Joint pain • Special medical conditions ice is contraindicated • Application of ice (very rare) can cause nerve damage • Be cautious with return to activity following icing • Stop cryotherapy for any of the above complications or side effects • Icing through a towel or bandage • Limits the reduction in temperature • Could limit effectiveness of treatment

  4. Cold Response • Burning • Aching • Numbness • Analgesia (pain is relieved) • Athlete can engage in rehab activities • Special considerations • Keep in mind comfort of the athlete during treatment

  5. Cryotherapy Techniques • Ice Massage • Cold or Ice Water Immersion • Temperature 50º to 60º • Ice Packs (Bags) • Chemical Cold packs • Vasocoolant Sprays

  6. Transmission of Thermal Energy • Temperatures of • 116.6o F will cause tissue damage and temperatures • 113o F should not be on the skin longer than 30 min.

  7. Thermotherapy • Physiological Effects of Superficial Heat • Dependent on type of heat energy applied • Intensity of heat energy • Duration of exposure • Desired effects • Increase soft tissue flexibility • Decreasing joint stiffness • Reducing pain • Relieving muscle spasm • Reduction of edema and swelling • Increasing blood flow • Pain relief • Gate control mechanism • Secretion of endorphins to block pain

  8. Special considerations • Never apply heat • When there is loss of sensation • Immediately after injury • When there is decreased arterial circulation • Directly to eyes or the genitals • To the abdomen during pregnancy • When there are signs of acute inflammation • Dry Heat • Moist Heat Therapies • Moist Heat Packs • Whirlpool • Ultrasound

  9. Contrast (Alternating Cold and Heat) • Equipment • Hot and cold tubs/whirlpools • Hot and cold packs • Indications • Transition from cold to heat • Minimal temperature changes occur superficially • Application • Treatment ratio used • Move from primarily cold to heat • Water temperature should be kept constant • Athlete should be comfortable

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