Cold therapy
Cold Therapy
Cold therapy (pronounced: /koʊld ˈθɛrəpi/), also known as cryotherapy (pronounced: /kraɪoʊˈθɛrəpi/), is a medical treatment that involves the use of cold temperatures to treat various conditions. The term "cold therapy" is derived from the English words "cold" (from Old English cald) and "therapy" (from Greek therapeia meaning "healing").
Uses
Cold therapy is commonly used to reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling after acute injury or surgical procedures. It is also used in the management of some chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Methods
There are several methods of applying cold therapy, including ice packs, cold water immersion, and cryotherapy chambers. The method chosen often depends on the specific condition being treated and the patient's tolerance to cold.
Benefits and Risks
The benefits of cold therapy include reduced pain and inflammation, improved recovery time, and increased circulation after the initial constriction of blood vessels. However, it also carries risks such as frostbite, nerve damage, and in rare cases, cold-induced urticaria or cold allergy.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cold therapy
- Wikipedia's article - Cold therapy
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