Cold Therapy

Cold Therapy


Cold slows circulation, which reduces swelling (inflammation), muscle spasm, and pain. The effect of cold is known to last longer than heat. Cold therapy is used after injuries such as sprains to help control pain and swelling.

Caution - if a gel pack (hot or cold) gets a hole, do not use it! The chemicals used to produce heat or cold can burn the skin. Ouch! Throw it away immediately.



Cold Packs and Cold Therapy (Cryotherapy)

Cold therapy produces vasoconstriction, which slows circulation reducing inflammation, muscle spasm, and pain.

Superficial cold is available in many forms including a variety of commercial cold packs, ice cubes, iced towels/compresses, and forms of hydrotherapy. The duration of cold therapy is less than heat therapy; usually less than 15 minutes. The effect of cold is known to last longer than heat.

Cold or ice should never to applied directly to the skin. A barrier, such as a toweling, should be placed between the cold agent and the skin's surface to prevent skin and nerve damage. Punctured commercial cold packs should be immediately discarded, as the chemical agent/gel will