What happens in cryotherapy when there is a reduction in body temperature?

• A. Vasodilation
• B. Increased metabolic rate
• C. Muscle spasm
• D. Vasoconstriction

Answer: (D)

Cooling tissue in cryotherapy triggers vasoconstriction of superficial blood vessels. This reflex tightening of small arteries and arterioles reduces blood flow to the treated area, helping to limit heat loss, minimize edema, and protect deeper tissues after injury. The cooler temp also slows local metabolism and decreases nerve conduction, which contributes to analgesia. Vasodilation would occur with heat, not cold, and an increased metabolic rate is the opposite of what cooling does, while muscle spasm is not the primary vascular response to lowered temperature.