The Effect of Cold Therapy on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness and Quadriceps Femoris Strength After High-Intensity Eccentric Training

Abstract

This study investigated the immediate post-exercise effects of cold therapy on muscle strength, joint mobility, and pain perception in the quadriceps femoris muscle. Methods Nineteen subjects were recruited in a strength training protocol, followed by a 60-minute cold bandage application to one leg. Muscle strength, joint mobility, and pain perception were assessed at baseline and 48 hours post-intervention. Results The cold-treated leg experienced significantly less perceived pain during active knee extension. There was a significant increase in mean torque for the untreated leg at 180°/s. No significant difference was found in knee joint mobility, perceived exercise pain at Ely's test. Conclusion While cold therapy may alleviate post-exercise pain, it does not appear to mitigate functional impairments. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms and optimal application of cold therapy in exercise recovery.