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Does Cryotherapy Hasten Return to Participation? A Systematic Review
Tricia J. Hubbard1, Stephanie L. Aronson, Craig R. Denegar
1Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA.
Journal of Athletic Training
|April 16, 2004
Summary
Cryotherapy may aid return to sports after injury, but evidence quality is low. More rigorous studies are needed to confirm cryotherapy
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Cryotherapy is widely used for acute injuries.
- Its specific effect on return to participation is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review original research on cryotherapy's impact on return to participation after injury.
- To assess the quality of existing studies.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of multiple databases (MEDLINE, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane, CINAHL) from 1976-2003.
- Included randomized clinical trials measuring return to participation.
- Studies were assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) Scale.
Main Results:
- Four studies met the inclusion criteria, with PEDro scores ranging from 2 to 4 (out of 10).
- Two studies suggested faster return to participation for ankle sprains, but lacked robust statistical analysis.
- One study's results were confounded by the use of compression therapy.
Conclusions:
- Cryotherapy may positively influence return to participation.
- Current evidence is limited by the poor quality and methodological weaknesses of existing studies.
- High-quality randomized controlled trials are necessary to determine cryotherapy's true effect on acute injury recovery and return to play.