Cryotherapy for the Management of Chronic Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Clinical Assessment of Pain and Function

Author(s): Józef Mróz, M.D., PhD 

Background: Chronic pain, defined as pain persisting or recurring for more than three months, affects an estimated 13.5% to 47% of the general population, with chronic musculoskeletal pain prevalence ranging from 11.4% to 24%. Given the high and rising prevalence of musculoskeletal pain, driven by demographic trends, there is an urgent need for effective interventions, particularly in rehabilitation care settings.

Materials and Methods: Twenty patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions participated in a treatment program consisting of 10 cold-air cryotherapy sessions. The effectiveness of the therapy was evaluated by assessing changes in pain, range of motion, and physical function using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) before and after treatment.

Results: All assessed parameters showed statistically significant improvements. Pain, measured using the Visual Analog Scale, decreased by 42.9%, while range of motion increased by 15.23%. The WOMAC questionnaire indicated improvements of 34.68% in pain, 40.26% in stiffness, and 24.87% in physical function.

Conclusions: Cold-air cryotherapy demonstrates potential as an effective treatment for various chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Its efficacy, ease of application, affordability, and transportability make it a promising alternative not only for acute edematous injuries but also for chronic pain management.