Why does ice reduce swelling?
In: Other
It doesn’t.
If ice reduced blood flow why is your skin red and puffy after application? Wouldn’t it be grey and contracted?
Lymphatics 101
There is extra cellular fluid in the interstitial space between cells. That fluid finds a precollector (think microscopic toilet bowl) and dumps in. The fluid passes through a one way valve and becomes lymph. Lymph is peristaltically moved through vessels by tiny muscles called lymphangions and eventually finds its way back to the cardiovascular system at the brachialcephalic branch.
When ice is applied, the cold causes the lymphatic vessel walls to become permeable and the lymphatic fluid flows back into the extra cellular space slowing down the healing process because it has to start over. Ice can actually increase overall swelling because of this as it creates additional work for the lymphatic system.
Check out books from Gary Reinl and lymphatic physician Dr. Bruno Chikly.
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