Cold Therapy

WHY COLD?

Cold (or iced) therapy is one of the simplest, safest, and most effective self-care techniques for post workout therapy or to treat pain or discomfort in muscles and joints. Cold will decrease muscle spasms, pain, and inflammation of bone and soft tissue. You can use cold initially on the site of discomfort, pain, or injury. You can also apply cold in later stages for rehabilitating injuries or easing chronic problems.

FOUR STAGES OF COLD THERAPY

When you apply cold therapy, you’ll feel four distinct sensations. Immediately after applying, you’ll feel the cold, then you’ll feel a burning/prickling sensation in the iced area. Next, you’ll feel an aching, which can sometimes hurt more than the initial pain. Eventually, and most importantly, the iced area will feel numb. As soon as you feel numbness, remove the cold therapy. You should apply cold therapy for not longer than 20 to 30 minutes at a time. Before you reapply cold therapy, let your skin return to a normal temperature or back to the aching feeling.

HOW DOES COLD THERAPY WORK?

Cold initially constricts local blood vessels and decreases tissue temperature. This decreases blood flow and cell metabolism, which can limit hemorrhage and cell death in an acute traumatic injury. After about 20 minutes of cold therapy, blood vessels in the injured area slowly dilate (open), increasing the tissue temperature.

WHEN SHOULD YOU USE COLD THERAPY?

For the greatest benefit, use cold therapy after exercise, not before. Studies have shown that cooling a body part prior to athletic performance is probably not a good idea, as the cold may alter joint position, increasing risk of injury.

To most effectively use cold therapy, apply a cold or frozen Caldera Gel Pack to the problem area. You can hold it in place with a Caldera Therapy Wrap.

CAN I USE COLD THERAPY AS A PRECAUTION?

You can use a chilled or frozen Caldera Gel Pack immediately following any workout, or when you feel any discomfort or injury. If the swelling or pain doesn’t decrease within 24 to 48 hours, you should consult your doctor.

IS COLD THERAPY SAFE?

Cold therapy is very safe when used within the recommended application time. Don’t apply cold therapy if you have any of the following conditions: rheumatoid arthritis, Reynaud’s Syndrome, allergies, paralysis, or areas of impaired sensation (nerve damage).