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HMS, TIP 2025 HSC 3 MC*

What type of recovery strategy is cryotherapy?

  1. Psychological, because it lowers the athlete's perception of pain
  2. Psychological, because it promotes relaxation after competition
  3. Physiological, because it restores fluid and electrolyte levels
  4. Physiological, because it reduces inflammation in damaged tissue
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\(D\)

Show Worked Solution
  • D is correct: Cryotherapy is a physiological recovery strategy. Cold exposure constricts blood vessels, which reduces inflammation, swelling and metabolic activity in damaged tissue.

Other options:

  • A is incorrect: Cold does reduce pain by slowing nerve conduction, but this is a physical effect on the body. It does not make cryotherapy a psychological strategy.
  • B is incorrect: Relaxation is a psychological strategy, such as progressive muscle relaxation or meditation. Cryotherapy works on the body’s tissues, not the mind.
  • C is incorrect: Cryotherapy is physiological, but restoring fluids and electrolytes is the role of hydration, not cold therapy.