Cold Therapy Offers Temporary Pain Relief and Nervous System Stimulation, Research Indicates
Cold therapy, including cold water immersion and cryotherapy, is recognized for its ability to temporarily alleviate pain and stimulate the nervous system. This occurs as the body responds to rapid temperature shifts, redirecting blood flow towards vital organs. Studies suggest that cold exposure can trigger a significant increase in norepinephrine, ranging from 200-300%, which contributes to an enhanced sense of alertness. However, using cold therapy immediately after resistance training may negatively impact the body's adaptive response to exercise. A 2023 review indicated that cold water immersion generally outperformed contrast water therapy for most recovery outcomes, while a 2024 review found cryotherapy to be most effective for soreness. Despite these findings, current evidence does not conclusively support claims that cold water therapy improves mood or reduces stress. Furthermore, cold exposure within two hours of bedtime might disrupt sleep patterns.
