Cryostretching
Cryostretching is a technique used to reduce muscle spasms and so increase flexibility. It involves three phases:
- Cold Application
- Static Stretching
- Contract-Relax Technique
First the body part is cooled for up to 20 minutes in which time it should become numb.
Following this two sets of 65 second stretches are applied with a 20 second rest between sets. Each period of 65 seconds consists mainly of static stretching, with three 5 second isometric contractions interspersed throughout the stretch. There should not be any pain throughout the procedure.
Why is Cryostretching so Beneficial?
- Ice reduces muscle spasm
- Static stretches overcome the stretch reflex to reduce muscle spasm
- Muscle relaxation is often greater following a contraction than before the contraction
- These three components together are more effective than any individual method
