CRYOTHERAPY GUIDELINES.... When, Why, and How Clinical Problem Signs & Symptoms Timing Clinical Objectives Intervention and Mechanism of Action Pain Acute Phase (First 72 hours after a flare‐up or injury) To reduce pain Ice Slows nerve conduction of pain message More effective and appropriate for acute rather than chronic pain Should NOT be used if suspected or confirmed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Inflammation Heat Redness Swelling Pain Reduced function Acute Phase (First 72 hours after a flare‐up or injury) To limit the extent of the inflammatory reaction Ice Decreases metabolic rate, and thus required blood flow, of the cells which were not originally involved in the injury; thereby controls the extent of the inflammatory reaction Temporary vasoconstriction of superficial blood vessels only The use of contrast baths to stimulate vasoconstriction and vasodilation is effective primarily in areas of ateriovenous anastamoses (ears, fingers, toes) Combination of rest, cooling, compression and elevation (RICE) Most effective in controlling inflammation when applied immediately post injury (
Posted on: Tue, 17 Sep 2013 09:36:21 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015