What is Cryotherapy?


Cryotherapy, also known as cold therapy, is a topic you are probably already familiar with on a smaller scale. When you are injured and ice the problem area, you are using a form of cryotherapy. Whole body cryotherapy is a form of treating the entire body to the healing benefits that cold has to offer. While many people question whether they should strip down to their underwear and jump in a -270 degree F. chamber for about three minutes, other people are lining up to receive the healing benefits it promises.

Research has shown that short stays in cold temperatures can enhance physical health, and improve mental health and stamina. Cryotherapy involves using temperatures that are near freezing or qualify as freezing, and is considered as alternative other methods of treatment. Cryotherapy is not always a comfortable treatment initially.

Cryotherapy is not a new concept in the recovery field. Rheumatologist Toshima Yamaguchi discovered the art of cryotherapy in 1978. He noted that patients felt better and suffered from less pain for several hours after being exposed to the cold treatment. Current research is pretty in depth, and shows that cold therapy may provide the following benefits:
  • Relief from acute pain
  • Relief from chronic pain
  • Muscle regeneration
  • Weight loss
  • Decreased inflammation
  • Reducing the risk of dementia
  • Cancer prevention
  • Cancer treatment
  • Reducing depression
  • Reducing anxiety
  • Reducing the effects of eczema
  • Treating migraines
Since whole-body cryotherapy only lasts for a few minutes, and the environment is controlled, the risk is considered to be lower than cold water therapy that is typically used to treat the same type of conditions. As long as you do not have any pre-existing medical conditions, the risks currently associated with it are considered low.

Whole body cryotherapy is not a regulated therapy so it is recommended that you find a reputable facility if you want to see if it can benefit you. You should also consult your doctor to ensure that any health conditions you have will not be affected by the cold, even if it is just on a short-term basis.

Women who are pregnant should not try whole body cryotherapy. People with preexisting heart conditions or unstable blood pressure should avoid the therapy as well unless their doctor has stated that it is safe for their individual situation.

Even though research is still being done on this type of therapy, the overall benefits of thermogenesis have shown substantial promise in the medical field. Just like anything else you add to your life, cryotherapy can be dangerous if it is not done correctly. If you are looking for a boost of energy and an increased mental clarity that lasts several days, schedule a cryotherapy session with a reputable cryotherapy provider.



About the Author

Dr. Josh Kantor D.C. owns and manages Chill Space, a leading Manhattan Health and Wellness Spa. To learn more about scheduling a cryosauna session please visit his website at ChillSpaceNYC.com.

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