Moderate cryotherapy by immersion: an alternative in the treatment of muscle damage induced by exercise

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the effect of moderate immersion cryotherapy (15ºC) in muscular inflammatory responses, in biochemical and neuromotor variables, after a session of eccentric exercise. Methods: 18 healthy men (aged 18-25 years), non-practitioners of physical exercise who participated in the survey on a voluntary basis were recruited. Initially, they were randomized into three groups: Control group (CG), Exercise Group (EX) and Exercise + Cryotherapy Group (EX + CT). After randomization, volunteers took: a) biochemical test (creatine kinase-CK), b) neuromotor test (range of motion – ANGLE), c) test of pain scale – PAIN, and d) maximum isometric strength test. Then, the experimental groups performed a series of maximal eccentric actions (seated calf raise) for the anterior and posterior region of the leg. CK, ANGLE and PAIN were analyzed 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours after the session. The subjects on EX + CT received cryotherapy treatment immediately after the session and 12, 24 and, 36 hours thereafter. Results: In comparison to resting the CK, PAIN and ANGLE values showed significant increase after the sessions in the experimental groups. The EX exhibited significantly higher values than those of EX + CT in all variables analyzed. Conclusion: Cryotherapy indicate to be a viable alternative in the treatment for myopathy and delayed onset muscle soreness.