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Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a term that describes the application of ice compresses to reduce the temperature of tissues directly on or below the skin surface. Cryotherapy works on the surface. Ice constricts blood vessels, numbs painful areas, reduces inflammation/swelling, and helps relax muscle spasms. Cold temperatures reduce nerve transmission of painful symptoms and provide temporary relief. Icing affected tissues is effective in reducing and preventing post-traumatic swelling. Ice should be applied to affected areas several times a day during the initial stages of an injury.
Patient Benefits: Helps reduce swelling and inflammation, numbs affected area to reduce pain, reduces muscle spasms and is inexpensive and can be self-applied.
Directions: Wrap ice or gel pack (preferred) in a towel. Apply to affected area for 20 minutes at a time. Repeat as necessary, allowing for a 20 minute "warm up" period between applications. Rule of thumb for ice: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
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