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used extensively in sports medicine to minimize the swelling and inflammation
that usually result in pain. It can also help get patients moving faster. Studies
have shown that the use of cryotherapy can improve passive motion and knee
flexion 1 week after ligament repair.
Including cryotherapy in your pain management plan can be as simple as
using ice packs, though there are specialized devices designed to stay colder
longer for patients recovering at home. Some of these devices also compress
the area while cooling it, which, evidence suggests, may further improve anal-
gesia.
