Cold compression therapy
Cold compression therapy
Cold compression therapy (pronunciation: /koʊld kəmˈprɛʃən ˈθɛrəpi/) is a medical treatment commonly used to alleviate pain and swelling in injured tissues.
Etymology
The term "cold compression therapy" is derived from the two primary components of the treatment: "cold" refers to the application of cold temperatures, and "compression" refers to the application of pressure. "Therapy" is derived from the Greek word "therapeia," meaning healing.
Definition
Cold compression therapy combines two elements of the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): the use of cold temperatures (ice) and compression. The cold is used to reduce blood flow to a particular area, which can significantly reduce inflammation and swelling that causes pain, especially around a joint or a tendon. The compression helps to prevent swelling and edema, which are common sources of pain after an injury.
Application
Cold compression therapy is often used in the immediate aftermath of an injury, such as a sprain, strain, or fracture. It can also be used to manage post-surgical pain and swelling. The therapy is typically administered using a cold compression wrap, which is a device that can be cooled in a freezer and then strapped to the affected area to deliver the cold and compression simultaneously.
Related Terms
- RICE protocol: An acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, a common treatment protocol for injuries.
- Edema: Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues.
- Inflammation: A protective response by the body to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cold compression therapy
- Wikipedia's article - Cold compression therapy
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