Vidcast:  https://youtu.be/0ITzY3wa7DA

 

The time-honored recommendation to put ice packs on injured extremities now comes under question with the publication of a Japanese study.  Using a mouse model, Kobe University researchers show that cold unduly delays muscle regeneration following contraction trauma that mimics a muscle tear.

 

Slower healing of cold tissues occurs since low temperatures impede the migration and function of pro-inflammatory macrophages.  These scavenger cells must clean up and dispose of damaged muscle before healing may commence.  After they do, they also prevent excess inflammation.

 

The old adage recommending RICE, that is rest, ice, compression, and elevation, may require updating and the omission of ice.  The other components continue to be helpful.

 

https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/japplphysiol.01069.2020

 

#sports #injury #rice #icing #macrophages