Which therapy is used specifically to reduce swelling and inflammation?

Cold therapy is specifically utilized to reduce swelling and inflammation due to its physiological effects on the body. When applied, cold therapy constricts blood vessels, leading to a decrease in blood flow to the affected area. This vasoconstriction helps minimize the extravasation of fluids into the tissues, effectively reducing edema (swelling). Additionally, the application of cold can numb the area, providing relief from pain associated with inflammation.

In cases of acute injuries, such as sprains or strains, practitioners often recommend cold therapy as the first line of treatment. The reduction in temperature can also slow down cellular metabolism and help prevent further tissue damage.

Other therapies like hydrotherapy may provide benefits for overall recovery and mobility but do not specifically target swelling and inflammation in the same direct way that cold therapy does. Massage therapy can improve circulation and may help with lymphatic drainage, but it might exacerbate swelling in the acute phase of an injury. Ultrasound therapy can promote tissue healing and reduce pain but does not directly reduce inflammation in the same manner as cold therapy.