Different Cryotherapy Modalities Demonstrate Similar Effects on Muscle Performance, Soreness, and Damage in Healthy Individuals and Athletes: A Systematic Review with Metanalysis

Author(s)

Azevedo, Klaus Porto ; Bastos, Julia Aguillar Ivo ; de Sousa Neto, Ivo Vieira ; Pastre, Carlos Marcelo ; Durigan, Joao Luiz Quagliotti

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE; v. 11, n. 15, p. 12-pg., 2022-08-01.

Abstract

Background: There are extensive studies focusing on non-invasive modalities to recover physiological systems after exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) and Partial-body cryotherapy (PBC) have been recommended for recovery after EIMD. However, to date, no systematic reviews have been performed to compare their effects on muscle performance and muscle recovery markers. Methods: This systematic review with metanalysis compared the effects of WBC and PBC on muscle performance, muscle soreness (DOMS), and markers of muscular damage following EIMD. We used Pubmed, Embase, PEDro, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials as data sources. Two independent reviewers verified the methodological quality of the studies. The studies were selected if they used WBC and PBC modalities as treatment and included muscle performance and muscle soreness (DOMS) as the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes were creatine kinase and heart rate variability. Results: Six studies with a pooled sample of 120 patients were included. The methodological quality of the studies was moderate, with an average of 4.3 on a 0-10 scale (PEDro). Results: Both cryotherapy modalities induce similar effects without difference between them. Conclusion: WBC and PBC modalities have similar global responses on muscle performance, soreness, and markers of muscle damage. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/11146-0 - Effects of post exercise massage and cold-water immersion on movement variability and muscle stiffness in swimmers: a randomized controlled clinical trial
• Grantee: Carlos Marcelo Pastre
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants