The role of cryotherapy and compression therapy in improving football players recovery: a systematic review

Background: Contemporary football demands have intensified the need for effective post-match recovery strategies. While cryotherapy and compression therapy are widely implemented, their specific effectiveness in football populations remains inadequately synthesized. Objective: To systematically evaluate the effectiveness of cryotherapy, compression therapy, and their combined application for post-match recovery in football players through comprehensive analysis of high-quality evidence. Methods: We conducted a systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines with prospective registration (PROSPERO: CRD42024613263). Nine databases were systematically searched from January 2013 through September 2025. Randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses examining cryotherapy and compression therapy for post-match recovery in football players were included. Quality assessment utilized Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools. Results: From 4,847 identified records, 15 studies met inclusion criteria, encompassing 2,234 participants (mean age 22.8±4.1 years, 91% male). Studies included 10 randomized controlled trials, 3 systematic reviews, and 2 meta-analyses. Cold water immersion demonstrated the strongest evidence base (7 studies), followed by compression therapy (4 studies), combined interventions (3 studies), and whole-body cryotherapy (2 studies). Cold water immersion significantly reduced muscle soreness compared to passive recovery (mean difference: -1.6 VAS units, 95% CI: -2.4 to -0.8, p<0.001) and enhanced performance recovery (effect size: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.42-0.94, p<0.001). Compression therapy showed moderate effectiveness for pain reduction (effect size: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.21-0.69, p=0.002). Quality assessment revealed 73.3% of studies achieving low risk of bias. Conclusion: Strong evidence supports implementing cryotherapy and compression therapy for football players recovery. Optimal protocols include 10-15 minutes cold water immersion at 10-15°C immediately post-match, with compression therapy beneficial during extended recovery periods. However, placebo effects require consideration when interpreting subjective recovery measures.