The effectiveness of ice water immersion in the treatment of pain and reduced muscle function associated with delayed onset muscle soreness

Abstract

In the field of athletic training, ice water immersion is a commonly used therapeutic intervention when dealing with the signs and symptoms of delayed onset muscle soreness. These signs and symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced force production of the muscle. Ice water immersion, involves submerging an athlete in a tub of ice water up to their waist or neck for a prolonged period of time. Ice water immersion is thought to reduce signs and symptoms of delayed onset muscle soreness by limiting the body's acute inflammatory response; however, there is currently no physiological evidence to support these claims. In this critically appraised topic, I will be researching the current literature to find the best evidence on effectiveness of ice water immersion in the treatment of pain and reduced muscle function associated with delayed onset muscle soreness. I will use this evidence to provide a recommendation for current clinical practice and comment on implications for future research.