What is the biochemical and physiological rationale for using cold-water immersion in sports recovery? A systematic review

Cold-water immersion (CWI) is a popular recovery intervention after exercise. The scientific rationale is not clear, and there are no clear guidelines for its use. The aim of this review was to study the physiological and biochemical effect of short periods of CWI. A computer-based literature search...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:British journal of sports medicine 2010-03, Vol.44 (3), p.179-187
Main Authors: Bleakley, Chris M, Davison, Gareth W
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adaptation, Physiological
Antioxidants - metabolism
Baths
Biochemistry
Blood Pressure - physiology
Body Temperature - physiology
Carbon Dioxide - blood
Catecholamines - metabolism
Cerebrovascular Circulation - physiology
Cold
Cold Temperature
Female
Heart Rate - physiology
Humans
Hydrocortisone - metabolism
Immersion
Male
Partial Pressure
Physiology
Respiration
Sports - physiology
Sports injuries
Sports medicine
Water temperature
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Summary:Cold-water immersion (CWI) is a popular recovery intervention after exercise. The scientific rationale is not clear, and there are no clear guidelines for its use. The aim of this review was to study the physiological and biochemical effect of short periods of CWI. A computer-based literature search, citation tracking and related articles searches were undertaken. Primary research studies using healthy human participants, immersed in cold water (
ISSN:0306-3674
1473-0480
DOI:10.1136/bjsm.2009.065565