Cryotherapy and nerve palsy

Am J Sports Med. 1981 Jul-Aug;9(4):256-7. doi: 10.1177/036354658100900414.

Abstract

Ice application is one of the most extensively used treatments for athletic injuries. Frostbite is a recognized danger. Five cases of nerve palsy resulting from ice application are reported here. These palsies were temporary. They usually resolve spontaneously without any significant sequelae. This complication can be avoided by not using ice for more than 30 minutes and by guarding superficial nerves in the area.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Athletic Injuries / therapy*
  • Baseball
  • Cryosurgery / adverse effects*
  • Football
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Paralysis / etiology*