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CRYOTHERAPY (Ice therapy) Cryotherapy constricts blood vessels, numbs painful areas, and helps relax muscle spasms. Cold temperatures reduce nerve transmission of painful symptoms and provide temporary relief. Cooling injured tissues is effective in reducing and preventing post-traumatic swelling. Local cooling should be applied several times a day during the initial stages of an injury.
During the treatment period you may experience a burning or achy sensation. This is a normal sensation and it may last up to 5-8 minutes before you feel numb. If you feel pain during your treatment, remove the ice pack, discontinue further sessions and discuss this with the doctor on your next office visit.
HEAT
Heat causes the blood vessels to dilate, bringing more oxygenated blood to the area. This helps to flush out the metabolic waste products that are produced after an injury and the oxygen allows the tissues to heal. Heat relaxes muscles and can help improve range of motion.
How to use properly:
WARNING:
** if you have any loss of sensation do not use ice or heat without specific orders and direction from your physician as this could lead to serious/permanent tissue damage** |



