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Physiotherapy service

Cryotherapy

Cold therapy used as part of care for acute pain, swelling, and inflammatory responses.

01 /Service description

Cryotherapy is the therapeutic use of low temperatures to remove heat from the body. In our clinic, we perform local cryotherapy using cold packs (ice packs) and direct ice massage. Cooling works on the principle of conduction, causing local vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and a reduction in tissue metabolism. It is commonly used as part of care for acute conditions and helping manage acute inflammatory responses.

Cryotherapy in the clinic
02 /Indications & benefits

Who it is for.

Who it is for

  • Acute Injuries: Ankle sprains, knee sprains, muscle strains, and contusions.
  • Post-Operative Conditions: To reduce swelling and pain following arthroscopy or reconstruction surgeries.
  • Acute Inflammation: Bursitis, acute tendinitis, or \"hot\" and swollen joints (e.g., in active arthritis).
  • Post-Exercise: To minimize muscle micro-trauma in athletes.

Key benefits

  • Edema Reduction: Vasoconstriction reduces the leakage of fluid into the interstitial space.
  • Analgesia (Pain Relief): Cold slows down nerve conduction velocity, acting as a natural anesthetic and numbing the sensation of pain.
  • Inflammation Reduction: Slowing down biochemical processes and reducing the release of inflammatory mediators.
  • Reduction of Muscle Spasm: Breaking the pain-spasm cycle by reducing the sensitivity of muscle spindles.
03 /Treatment process

How the treatment works.

The procedure varies depending on the chosen method of application:

  • Cold Packs: A pack cooled to the appropriate temperature is always wrapped in a protective cloth (towel) to prevent frostbite on the skin. The pack remains stationary on the area for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Ice Massage: The physiotherapist uses an ice cube or ice \"lolly\" to perform circular motions directly on the painful area (e.g., on a tendon insertion). This procedure is more intense and shorter in duration (5 to 10 minutes).
  • Sensations (CBAN): Patients are advised of the four stages of sensation they will experience: Cold, Burning, Aching, and finally Numbness. Once numbness is achieved, the therapy is stopped.

Availability

Available as self-pay and insurance-covered (ZZZS).

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