1. Sports Medicine
Cryotherapy

2. Discussion Scenario
An athlete comes to the training room with shin splints. She asks for ice, and wants to know which method is best for her condition: ice massage, ice pack or cold whirlpool.
Which method would you recommend? Why?
Be ready to share your answer with the class.

3. Objectives Review the physiological effects of cold
Explain the indications and contraindications of using cold
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of cold modalities

4. Terminology
Cryotherapy: using a source of cold for treatment

5. Physiological Effects of Cold
Decreased muscle spasm
Decreased pain
Decreased blood flow (vasoconstriction)
Decreased metabolism
Decreased tissue extensibility
Increased joint stiffness

6. Indications for Cryotherapy
Acute injuries
Pain
Swelling/inflammation
Muscle spasm

7. Contraindications for Cryotherapy
Cold-related allergies
Open wounds
Cardiovascular problems
Sensory or circulatory deficits
High blood pressure
Respiratory problems
Diabetes or peripheral vascular disease
Infection

8. Cold Whirlpool What it is:
Container filled with ice & water at 50 to 60°F
Cooling occurs with water movement
Where it’s used:
Treating an injured extremity
Advantages:
Effective cooling in minutes
Can treat large areas
Disadvantages:
Can’t be transported
Requires prep time
Constant supervision

9. Ice Massage
What it is:
Water frozen in a cup; the top of the cup is peeled away and the exposed ice is rubbed over the area
Where it’s used:
Over small treatment areas (tendon, bursa, muscle belly, etc.)
Advantages:
Short treatment time (5-10 minutes)
Cheap (cup + water)
Athlete can self-treat
Disadvantages:
Only effective on small areas
Can be messy

10. Ice Bag What it is: Crushed ice tied in a plastic bag Where it’s used:
Any body part, especially after acute injuries
Advantages:
Molds to the body part/treat large areas
Cheap (plastic bag) after investment of ice machine
Transportable
Disadvantages:
Requires longer treatment times (15-30 minutes)