Just One Thing - with Michael Mosley cover image

Just One Thing - with Michael Mosley

Cold Therapy - Ep 2: Cold Recovery

Nov 30, 2023
Explore the benefits of cold therapy for health and wellbeing, including reducing pain and swelling. Learn about treating injuries with cold therapy in football and the advantages of contrast therapy. Discover the power of cold therapy for recovery and well-being, including reducing swelling and improving mood.
14:36

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Applying ice to an injury can reduce pain and swelling by slowing down nerve transmission and causing vasoconstriction.
  • Alternating between hot and cold water baths can improve muscle and joint recovery by increasing oxygenation and removing waste products.

Deep dives

Using Ice for Pain and Swelling

Applying ice to an injury can help reduce pain and swelling. The cold acts as an analgesic, temporarily slowing down the nerves' signal transmission and providing relief. It also causes vasoconstriction, narrowing the blood vessels in the affected area and reducing inflammation. Ice should be applied immediately after an injury for a maximum of 20 minutes at a time, with repetitions every two to three hours for up to 12 hours. It is important to wrap the ice in a towel or cloth to protect the skin.

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