Cryotherapy and Heat therapy (Thermal therapy) is the application of hot or cold elements to the body for the relief of pain and control of inflammation and swelling.
Cryotherapy or cold therapy is ideal for the acute phase of injury (first 72 hours) and immediately post-operative (after surgery) to reduce pain and swelling.
Cryotherapy works by decreasing the blood flow in the blood vessels (vasoconstriction) which slows bleeding, reduces swelling and the inflammatory response, provides analgesia (pain relief) and promote faster healing and further tissue damage.
Heat therapy, in contrast to cold therapy, should not be used on tissues already inflamed, or it may worsen the inflammation, swelling and pain.
The increased tissue temperature from heat therapy causes increased blood flow (vasodilation) which assists in removal of toxic waste from the tissue and speeds up activity in cells. Soft tissue becomes more flexible with heat and this helps in muscle relaxation and reduces joint stiffness. This allows stretching of the muscles to be performed more effectively and comfortably. Heat is useful in chronic pain, such as osteoarthritis, where it can provide pain relief.
Ice is best…
- Acute soft tissue injuries (less than 48hours);
- Post operative swelling;
- Inflammatory conditions.
Heat is best…
- Chronic or Degenerate conditions;
- Osteoarthritis;
- Muscular soreness.
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