Acute effect of cryotherapy period on muscle strength, flexibility, endurance and balance in HEALTHY individuals

This study was carried out to compare the effects of cryotherapy treatment on the muscle strength, shoulder flexibility, endurance and dynamic balance of the muscles around the shoulder applied on the shoulder at different times. 75 healthy participants (20.47±1.32 years, 51F/24M, 21.88±3.11 kg/m2) being educated at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University Faculty of Health Sciences were included in the study. Participants were randomized into three groups, group A (10 minutes of ice application), group B (15 minutes of ice application), and group C (20 minutes of ice application). Hand dynamometer was used to evaluate muscle strength, Back Scratch Test to evaluate flexibility, Modified Push-up Test to evaluate endurance and Upper Quadrant Y-Balance Test to evaluate dynamic balance. All assessments were performed twice, before and immediately after cryotherapy. When the data obtained were evaluated, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of muscle strength, flexibility, endurance and balance of the muscles around the shoulder after cryotherapy (p>0.05). However, external rotation flexibility (p=0.010), endurance (p<0.001) and balance (p=0.010) of group A increased statistically significantly. In group B, external rotation muscle strength (p=0.013) decreased and endurance (p<0.001) increased statistically. In group C, abduction muscle strength (p=0.017) decreased; external rotation flexibility (p<0.001), internal rotation flexibility (p=0.031) and endurance (p<0.001) increased statistically. According to the results of the research, it is seen that the shoulder muscle strength decreases with the increase of the cryotherapy period, but there is an increase in the flexibility, endurance and balance parameters. Although it does not have a positive effect on muscle strength, considering the positive effects of cryotherapy on other parameters, it is important for recovery to be included in rehabilitation programs by choosing the appropriate time.