I just recently returned from speaking at the AFPA Fitness Conference in Ocean City, MD.  I gave four different talks but invariably I always end up educating fitness pros on exercise selection, modification, and progression based upon individual client response.

It is so easy in the health and fitness industry to use set protocols or schemes we are comfortable with across the board even when we know clients are unique.  I have seen enough pathologic knees, shoulders, etc. over the years to know that everyone’s body reacts in its own unique way to exercise.

The primary tool we need to use to understand where a person’s body is in terms of inflammation and healing is pain.  We need to educate our clients to be forthright about ongoing pain before, during and after sessions.  So, what causes pain?  Often it stems from inflammation.

I told the trainers this past weekend that cryotherapy will do wonders for many conditions.  In fact, I see many discontinue ice after the first 2-3 days.  This is a BIG mistake in my opinion.  Who ever said ice will not help sub-acute or even chronic inflammation for that matter?  I am adamant that clients ice in the presence of pain.

Pain is a marker and evaluative tool we need to embrace to better tweak rehab and exercise progressions.  Cryotherapy is crucial in reducing persistent inflammation.  I particularly like to use it immediately following workouts to reduce any new post-exercise soreness and inflammation that may creep up with higher volumes and intensities in the session.

Today, I wanted to share two of my favorite cryotherapy resources with you.  You see, I want my clients to be proactive and vigilant with their own personal rehab and wellness programming.  That often necessitates that they purchase tools to use at home.  This way they are ready when unexpected pain or inflammation strikes.

My preferred solutions are:

  • Biofreeze– a topical ointment or spray that helps reduce pain from aches/strains and joint pain.   My personal massage therapist uses it and I find relief in my neck with it after each session.  I carry this in my OpenSky store because it is effective.  You can see more by clicking on the image below:

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    • Custom fit cold compression wrapsfrom Cold One – I personally own the shoulder, low back and knee wraps.  These conform to your body and velcro down so you don’t have to hold them on or worry about them not hitting the right area.  Click the image below for more info.  You can even save 10% right now using the promo code BSCHIFF10.

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    I think you will find these resources useful in the recovery of musculo-skeletal pain and inflammation.  While heat may be used and feels good, I prefer cold therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.