Cryotherapy-induced nerve injury

Cryotherapy is a frequently used therapeutic modality in the treatment of athletic injuries. Peripheral nerve injury can result from the use of cryotherapy and cause temporary disability for the athlete. Six cases of peripheral nerve injury are reviewed. All cases resolved spontaneously. To avoid this complication, one should consider the location of major peripheral nerves, the thickness of the overlying subcutaneous fat, and the duration of tissue cooling.