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Cold Treatments Like Icing and Cryotherapy May Slow Muscle Recovery

Cold treatments may not be ideal during strength-building phases. Explore alternative recovery methods to support muscle growth and repair.

In this image we can see a tap with ice coming from the hole.
In this image we can see a tap with ice coming from the hole.

Cold Treatments Like Icing and Cryotherapy May Slow Muscle Recovery

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often turn to cold treatments like icing and cryotherapy to ease post-workout soreness. However, recent insights challenge the effectiveness of these methods, particularly during strength-building phases.

Muscle soreness after a workout is a natural response to strained muscles. Traditionally, cold treatments like icing and cryotherapy have been popular recovery methods. These treatments numb pain and reduce inflammation. Cryotherapy, in particular, has gained attention for its high-tech approach, offering similar benefits to ice baths at a higher cost.

However, experts now question the wisdom of these methods during strength-building phases. Cold treatments may slow muscle recovery by constricting blood vessels and disrupting the body's natural healing response. Even the creator of the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) method has expressed reservations about cold treatment. Instead, alternative recovery options are gaining traction. These include consuming anti-inflammatory foods and other tips to support muscle repair and growth.

While cold treatments like icing and cryotherapy have been widely used for post-workout recovery, recent findings suggest they may not be ideal during strength-building phases. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts should consider alternative recovery methods to support muscle growth and repair.

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