An exploration of targeted cryotherapy protocols, using the swellaway knee unit, on healthy male subjects

Abstract

Purpose: With the development of the guidelines for acute injury management evolving from PRICE (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) to POLICE (Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation), the ability to facilitate optimal loading is key to promote early recovery with early activity. A 20-minute ice application has been reported to inhibit muscle strength and joint position sense. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore if targeted cryotherapy, over a smaller surface area using the Swellaway Knee Unit, could achieve the desired skin surface temperatures (Tsk), whilst minimising potential reductions in muscle strength or joint position sense post-intervention; hence facilitating early optimal loading