Cryotherapy has been used in the treatment of soft tissue trauma and other ailments since the time of Hippocrates. Currently it is commonly applied in conjunction with surgical procedures and by athletic trainers and physical therapists to control pain, swelling, bleeding, and inflammation. Localized cooling also results in slowing of the nerve conduction velocity and reduced muscle spasm and secondary hypoxic injury. Cooling is commonly used for soft tissue injuries in combination with rest, compression and elevation to minimize inflammation.
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