[Cryotherapy. Behavior of joint temperature during ice application-- a basis for practical use].

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Physiology

Context:

• Cryotherapy is a common treatment for joint injuries and inflammatory conditions.
• Understanding the precise effects of cryotherapy on intraarticular temperature is crucial for optimizing treatment protocols.
• Previous research has explored cryotherapy's impact, but specific recommendations for application timing and movement during treatment require further clarification.

Purpose:

• To investigate the changes in intraarticular temperature during long-term cryotherapy in young animals.
• To determine the optimal application time and temperature for cold packs to achieve significant and lasting intraarticular temperature reduction.
• To establish evidence-based recommendations for patient movement during cryotherapy application and rewarming phases to maximize therapeutic outcomes.

Summary:

• Cryotherapy using cold packs at -23°C for 30 minutes reduced intraarticular temperature by an average of 6.56°C.
• The intraarticular temperature returned to baseline after approximately 215 minutes.
• Movement during the cooling phase can enhance temperature decrease, while avoiding movement during rewarming is recommended when intraarticular temperature reduction is the primary goal.

Impact:

• Long-term cryotherapy reduces joint metabolism and the activity of cartilage-degrading enzymes, offering a therapeutic effect.
• Cryotherapy protocols involving cold packs (-20°C to -23°C) for 30 minutes every 5-6 hours are recommended for acute rheumatic arthritis, posttraumatic edema, and sports injuries.
• This research provides practical guidelines for cryotherapy application, potentially improving treatment efficacy for various joint conditions.