Cryotherapy decreases which of the following symptoms?

• A. Nerve conduction abnormalities
• B. Bone density loss
• C. Edema
• D. Blood sugar fluctuations

Answer: (C)

Cryotherapy primarily reduces edema by causing local vasoconstriction and limiting the inflammatory response after injury. The cold narrows blood vessels, lowering blood flow to the area, which reduces capillary permeability and fluid leakage into tissues. It also slows metabolism and the release of inflammatory mediators, helping to limit swelling. Bone density loss involves longer-term bone remodeling and isn’t directly altered by brief local cooling. Blood sugar fluctuations are systemic and not directly affected by a localized cold application. Nerve conduction changes can occur with cold exposure, but the symptom most consistently reduced with cryotherapy in acute care is edema.