Introduction
Cryotherapy (cold therapy) has been used to manage pain for thousands of years. Cryotherapy refers to any form of pain management or treatment that involves applying cold to the skin. Applying cryotherapy to foot issues requires more advanced training for the podiatrist and involves more intense temperatures than used to treat an injured muscle. This article explains in detail about the application of cryotherapy in podiatric care.
What Is Cryotherapy?
Using liquid nitrogen on the lesion to destroy the affected tissues is known as cryotherapy. It is the second line of treatment for verrucas (warts on the foot). The amount of time required to freeze the area may vary based on its shape and position, with larger lesions necessitating additional treatment. Initially, the lesion will be minimized with a scalpel. After the region has been frozen, a tiny scab or blister typically appears. It uses intense cold, thus it is a painful process; some discomfort may also be expected for the initial days after treatment.
How Does Cryotherapy Work?
Nitrous oxide is used to freeze the verruca at around -90 degrees Celsius. Cryotherapy is the controlled destruction of tissues both within and outside of cells, disturbing the cells in which the virus concentrates. The freezing of the cells in the area leads the cell membrane to break upon defrosting, stimulating the immune system to combat and overcome the virus. Redness and swelling may occur for up to four days following cryotherapy. Nitrous oxide is used as a pressurized gas in the area. The therapy takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on how many verrucas people have. Typically, three to six sessions are required, spaced out between three and four weeks apart, with resolution requiring many weeks or months.
How Is Cryotherapy Used to Treat Foot Problems?
Plantar warts and Morton's neuroma are two common foot conditions that respond favorably to cryotherapy treatment. The following are the uses of cryotherapy in podiatric care.
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Cryotherapy for Plantar Warts
The human papillomavirus is the cause of plantar warts, which develop on the bottoms or soles of the feet. A callus may form over the wart, which can be uncomfortable and make walking difficult. Cryotherapy freezes and destroys tissue to remove warts from the feet. As the liquid is very cold, doctors occasionally employ a numbing drug to keep patients comfortable.
The freezing process takes only a few minutes and can be applied with a probe, cotton swab, or spray. To ensure that warts are entirely eradicated and cannot spread, doctors require every patient to return for a follow-up session. Cryotherapy is usually sufficient to remove warts. In cases of recurrence, doctors also provide laser wart removal procedures.
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Cryotherapy for Neuromas
Cryotherapy provides a much-needed breakthrough for people suffering from foot nerve lesions, also known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma is a nerve condition affecting the toes that is usually caused by an injury or prolonged heel wear. Symptoms range from pressure on the bottom of the foot, to acute pains, burning sensations, or numbness. Doctors treat neuromas with cryotherapy. During the treatment, they freeze the small blood arteries that usually supply circulation to the nerves. This forces the nerves to stop sending pain, preventing the neuroma from expanding. One advantage of cryotherapy for the treatment of neuromas is that just the nerves within the neuroma are killed; patients should not experience any loss of foot sensation.
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Muscular Recovery and Injury Management
Cryotherapy is effective in musculoskeletal healing, including the complicated network of muscles in the foot. It can help podiatric patients manage injuries, reduce inflammation, and speed up their recuperation.
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Plantar Fasciitis Relief
Cryotherapy may help treat plantar fasciitis, a frequent source of heel discomfort. Cold exposure can reduce inflammation, calm discomfort, and help manage this common podiatric condition.
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Managing Dermatitis and Psoriasis
Dermatological diseases affecting the foot, including dermatitis and psoriasis, can be difficult to treat. Cryotherapy can help manage these illnesses and provide relief to people who have persistent skin disorders.
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Neuropathy and Nerve Pain
Neuropathic pain in the foot, which is commonly associated with conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, presents distinct complications. Cryotherapy may help those suffering from neuropathic pain and improve their quality of life.
What Are the Benefits of Using Cryotherapy for Foot Problems?
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This treatment is effective for verruca when other treatments have failed. Cryotherapy does not require hospitalization and can be performed by a podiatrist in the clinic.
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Patients who receive effective therapy can engage in activities like swimming without worrying about potentially spreading the infection.
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Effective use of cryotherapy lessens any humiliation the patient could be feeling due to the verruca.
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There is minimal to no scarring after treatment, though some pigmentation may occur, making treated areas darker or lighter. This does not improve with time. Cryotherapy can be used on the feet and hands.
What Are the Contraindications for Using Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is not recommended for pregnant women, people with diabetes, anyone with immune-related illnesses, or those taking immune-suppressing medications. Other contraindications to cryotherapy include conditions that can be aggravated by cold exposure, such as multiple myeloma, cryoglobulinemia, Raynaud disease, cold urticaria, a history of cold-induced damage at the site or limb, and poor circulation at the site or in that limb.
Conclusion
Cryotherapy opens up new avenues for foot health as it creates a position in podiatric care. Cryotherapy is at the confluence of innovation and individualized care, with applications ranging from controlling musculoskeletal disorders to dermatological concerns. A consultation with a skilled podiatrist who can assess the issue and suggest the best course of action is necessary to determine whether cryotherapy would be suitable for the particular situation.
