Ice is a common treatment for injuries, with many people using it to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation. However, recent research suggests that ice may actually delay the healing process, rather than promote it. In this blog, we will explore why ice may not be as beneficial for healing as we once thought and provide sources to back up our claims.
One of the main reasons why ice may delay healing is that it reduces blood flow to the injured area. Blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to the cells that are needed for healing. By constricting blood vessels, ice restricts the flow of these vital resources, making it harder for the body to repair damaged tissue. According to a study published in the Journal of Athletic Training, ice can decrease blood flow by up to 50%, which can significantly slow down the healing process.
Another reason why ice may delay healing is that it can interfere with the body’s natural inflammatory response. Inflammation is a natural part of the healing process and is needed to remove damaged tissue and initiate the repair process. By reducing inflammation with ice, we may be preventing the body from properly healing the injury. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that ice decreased the production of inflammation-fighting cells, which may lead to slower healing times.
Finally, ice may also delay healing by reducing the activity of cells that are involved in tissue repair. According to a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research, ice can decrease the activity of fibroblasts, which are cells that help build and repair tissue. By reducing the activity of these cells, ice may be inhibiting the body’s ability to properly heal the injury.
While there may be some cases where ice is beneficial for injuries, such as reducing pain and swelling immediately after an injury occurs, its long-term effects on healing should be taken into consideration. As noted by sports medicine physician Dr. Gabe Mirkin, who coined the term “RICE” (rest, ice, compression, elevation), “Ice delays healing. It does not help you heal faster, it helps you feel better faster.”
In conclusion, while ice has been a common treatment for injuries for many years, recent research suggests that it may actually delay the healing process. By reducing blood flow, interfering with the body’s natural inflammatory response, and decreasing the activity of cells involved in tissue repair, ice may actually be inhibiting the body’s ability to properly heal the injury. As with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific injury.
Sources:
– Bleakley, C., McDonough, S., & MacAuley, D. (2004). The use of ice in the treatment of acute soft-tissue injury: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 32(1), 251–261.
– Malanga, G. A., Yan, N., & Stark, J. (2015). Mechanisms and efficacy of heat and cold therapies for musculoskeletal injury. Postgraduate Medicine, 127(1), 57–65.
– Mirkin, G. (2012). Why ice delays recovery. Dr. Gabe Mirkin’s Fitness and Health E-Zine. Retrieved from http://www.drmirkin.com/fitness/why-ice-delays-recovery.html
– Tseng, C. Y., Lee, J. P., Tsai, Y. S., Lee, S. D., & Kao, C. L. (2013). Effects of far-infrared rays on the hemodynamic and autonomic nervous system. Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 91(10), 893–899.
