Which statement about cold application is true?

• A. It increases tissue metabolism.
• B. It reduces muscle tension.
• C. It decreases muscle tension.
• D. It causes vasodilation.

Answer: (C)

Cold application lowers tissue metabolism and slows nerve conduction, which reduces reflexive muscle activity and the tendency of muscles to tense up. This leads to decreased muscle tension, especially helpful for guarding or spasm after injury. It also causes vasoconstriction, reducing blood flow to the area; vasodilation is not a typical effect of cold therapy. Since cold lowers metabolic activity, it wouldn’t increase tissue metabolism. The idea that cold reduces or decreases muscle tension both describe the same relaxing effect, but the key point is that cold therapy directly lowers muscle tension.