What does cryotherapy refer to?

Cryotherapy refers specifically to the application of cold to body tissues. This technique is commonly used in sports and rehabilitation for pain relief and to reduce inflammation after injuries. By exposing the body to cold, cryotherapy can help constrict blood vessels, which decreases blood flow to the affected area, thus reducing swelling and pain. It can also lead to a release of endorphins, which can enhance recovery.

Understanding this definition helps to clarify why the other options do not align with the concept of cryotherapy. For instance, the application of heat to body tissues is known as thermotherapy, not cryotherapy. In contrast, massage techniques utilizing electrostimulation or the thermogenic effects of cold water do not refer to cryotherapy but rather other therapeutic modalities that involve different mechanisms of action.