Which of the following is a common effect of cold treatment on injuries?

Cold treatment, commonly known as cryotherapy, has several beneficial effects on injuries, with one of the most notable being the decrease in inflammation. When cold is applied to an injured area, it causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood flow. This can lead to a temporary decrease in the overall metabolic activity of the cells in the affected area. As a result, the production of inflammatory mediators is lessened, helping to limit the swelling often associated with acute injuries such as sprains and strains.

By controlling inflammation, cold treatment can also mitigate pain, as inflammation is a significant contributor to discomfort following injury. Additionally, decreased inflammation can facilitate a more favorable environment for healing, allowing for improved recovery timelines. This is why the application of cold is a common and effective approach in the management of acute injuries in sports medicine.