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Published on: June 8, 2017
Functional performance following an ice immersion to the lower extremity
Journal of Athletic Training
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Cold water immersion may negatively impact athletic performance. This study found that ice immersion temporarily decreased vertical jump height and slowed shuttle run times in athletes, suggesting careful consideration before use in rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Physiology
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Cryotherapy is a common treatment for acute injuries.
- Its use in later rehabilitation stages is increasing.
- Concerns exist regarding cryotherapy's impact on motor function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immediate effects of ice immersion on functional performance in athletes.
- To assess changes in shuttle run, hop test, and vertical jump after cold water exposure.
Main Methods:
- Twenty Division III athletes were divided into experimental (ice immersion) and control (rest) groups.
- Functional performance tests were conducted before and after a 20-minute intervention.
- A mixed design analysis of variance was used for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Vertical jump scores significantly decreased in the ice immersion group.
- Shuttle run times increased (indicating slower performance) in the experimental group.
- The 6-meter hop test results were not significantly affected by the treatment.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential immediate negative effects of cryotherapy on athletic motor activity.
- The findings suggest that cold water immersion may temporarily impair certain aspects of functional performance.
- Further research may explore optimal timing and protocols for cryotherapy in athletic rehabilitation.
