What effect does applying cold have?

• A. Increases swelling
• B. Has no effect
• C. Reduces swelling/inflammation via vasoconstriction
• D. Promotes tissue growth

Answer: (C)

Applying cold to an acute injury causes the blood vessels in the area to constrict (vasoconstriction). This reduces blood flow and limits fluid leakage from vessels into the tissue, which lowers edema and dampens the inflammatory response. Cold also slows nerve conduction, contributing to pain relief. Because of these effects, cold application best describes reducing swelling and inflammation via vasoconstriction. The other options don’t fit: cold does have an effect, it does not increase swelling, and it does not promote tissue growth.