USE OF CRYOTHERAPY AND THERMOTHERAPY IN MUSCLE RECOVERY OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE ATHLETES

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the comparative effects of cryotherapy and thermotherapy, applied at different stages of muscle recovery, on reducing delayed-onset muscle soreness and improving subsequent physical performance in high-performance athletes. This integrative literature review was conducted in the BVS, PubMed, and PEDro databases, using standardized descriptors and inclusion criteria focused on studies published between 2020 and 2025. Six articles met the eligibility criteria and were analyzed qualitatively. The results demonstrated that cryotherapy, applied immediately after exercise, was effective in reducing inflammation and muscle soreness, while thermotherapy showed better effects in the later stages of recovery, promoting tissue regeneration, flexibility, and muscle relaxation. Evidence also suggests that the combination of the two therapies, in a sequential and planned manner, enhances recovery and optimizes subsequent performance. The conclusion is that both techniques are effective, but their application should be individualized according to physiological demands and the stage of the recovery process. Future research should focus on standardizing protocols and evaluating chronic effects on muscle adaptation.