What term is used to indicate the application of ice in therapy?

The term "cry" is used in therapy to denote the application of ice or cold. This practice, often referred to as "cryotherapy," involves exposing the body to cold temperatures to achieve therapeutic effects. The primary benefits of cryotherapy include reducing inflammation, numbing pain, and promoting recovery in injured tissues. Ice application can constrict blood vessels, which helps decrease swelling and can also slow down cellular metabolism, thereby minimizing tissue damage after an injury.

While heat therapy is associated with the application of warmth to alleviate pain and promote blood flow, the action of applying a compress usually refers to cloths soaked in hot or cold water used for various medicinal purposes. Massage, on the other hand, involves the manipulation of soft tissues for therapeutic effects, which is distinct from the direct application of temperature as indicated by the term "cry." Understanding these definitions is crucial for distinguishing the various modalities used in therapy.