Cryotherapy Nerve Injuries

Injuries from cold therapy can include nerve damage, chronic pain, and visible skin abrasions, such as frost bite.  In fact, the Journal of Athletic Training noted several cases of nerve injury in athletes caused by cryotherapy.  Symptoms of nerve damage include pain, sensitivity, numbness, tingling or prickling, or a burning sensation in the affected area.  Nerve damage can result in pain that endures for months, also known as chronic pain.  Permanent nerve damage can result in losing all sense of feeling or touch to the area.

In an article titled, “Nerve Injury in Athletes Caused by Cryotherapy,” the doctors and athletic trainers at Duke University document six cases of cold-induced nerve injury that were referred to the Duke University Sports Medicine Center.  The article concludes that nerve injury can in fact result from improperly applied or excessively applied cryotherapy.

The case studies involved athletes with shoulder, spine, hip, and knee injuries.  Ice therapy was applied post-injury, with the length of application varying from 15-60 minutes.  Each subject experienced low to moderate nerve damage, with recovery taking up to six months.  The article concluded, “…use in some individuals can lead to nerve injury resulting in temporary or permanent disability of the athlete.”

Cold therapy devices can drastically affect the method and duration of ice application, increasing the risk of injury.  Patients often believe “more is better,” subjecting the skin and underlying nerves to extended periods of icy temperatures, often resulting in skin and nerve damage.

Without appropriate instructions or safety controls, lengthy application of these cooling units to acute injuries may cause significant nerve damage.  If you or someone you know has nerve injuries due to the use of a cryotherapy device, contact our law firm today for a free consultation.