Andrew M. Seaman
Reuters
Taking a dip in a tub of cold water after exercising may prevent muscle soreness, but a new look at past research says little is known about its side effects or even how long to stay in the water.
In general, the researchers said there is very little quality research on the topic of so-called cryotherapy, despite the treatment’s popularity to prevent or reduce muscle soreness days after exercising.
“It’s a typical intervention in sports medicine in the elite arena and the professional arena and it gradually started to filter down,” said Chris Bleakley, the study’s lead author and a researcher at the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland.
Read More: Cold-water baths may soothe aches, risks
Cartoon by Bob Moran
