Robert Topp PhD, RNRobert Topp, PhD RN from the University of Louisville compared Biofreeze® topical analgesic and ice on blood flow, pain and muscle performance of the upper extremity in healthy subjects.  He found a decrease in blood flow in the radial artery 5 minutes after applying Biofreeze to the forearm.  In a separate trial the application of ice reduced blood flow only 20 minutes after application. The application of Biofreeze resulted in a decrease in blood flow sooner than the ice application.  At 20 minutes following the application of these treatments, the trial involving the Biofreeze demonstrated significantly greater muscle function compared to the application of ice.  “While both ice and Biofreeze decrease blood flow, it is possible that Biofreeze’s mechanism of action may prevent the performance deficits associated with ice application,” said Topp.  Additional study needs to be completed to determine the differential effects of ice versus Biofreeze on blood flow and muscle performance. Dr. Topp presented his findings at the TRAC 2009 meeting in Cancun, Mexico. Read the research abstract here. 

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