Whole-body cryotherapy is a healing approach considered effective for a wide range of conditions and symptoms, from chronic joint pain to accelerated post-surgery recovery. Allow us to explain the science behind this seemingly magical wellness service and why it's as effective as it is.
Cryotherapy has been growing in popularity since the 1970s and even more so in recent years. However, this therapy has been around since about 2500 BC, proving itself to be a trusted and effective method of healing the body.
If you’re new to the concept of cryotherapy, we’re here to educate you on this incredible wellness service and what it has to offer.
The Process of Cryotherapy
There are two types of cryotherapies. Their processes slightly differ, but they ultimately have the same goal: to promote healing.
Whole-body cryotherapy is typically what people imagine when they hear the word cryotherapy. It’s designed to benefit the entire body. For this session, the client stands in an enclosed chamber with cold temperatures ranging from -200 to -250 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to the temperature intensity, each session only lasts a few minutes.
Localized cryotherapy still involves cold temperatures, but instead emphasizes the healing of one part or area of the body. Rather than standing in a whole-body chamber, localized cryotherapy involves applying extremely cold air via a handheld device to the desired area. It usually lasts a few minutes longer than whole-body cryotherapy.
How the Body Reacts to Brief Extreme Cold Temperatures
The idea of exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures sounds frightening. In reality, being exposed to just a few minutes of these very low temperatures can be quite beneficial. But how exactly does the body respond?
During exposure to extreme cold temperatures, the body enters survival mode. Blood enters your most vital organs as a means of protection. In turn, you experience improved blood circulation after your session. The cold temperature also releases endorphins, adrenaline, and norepinephrine, resulting in a calm energy afterward.
Core Benefits of Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- The reduction of joint and muscle pain
- Improve post-workout and post-surgery recovery
- Natural pain relief
- Improved mood and energy
- More restful sleep
- Improved skin appearance
- Better blood circulation
Is Cryotherapy Safe?
You know cryotherapy has benefits, but you might be curious if there are any risks. While no therapy is risk-free and won’t be ideal for everyone, cryotherapy is generally considered safe. This is especially true when the therapy takes place in a carefully controlled environment monitored closely by trained professionals like us.
While most people are clear to get cryotherapy, certain individuals should be more cautious. This includes pregnant women, those with uncontrolled high blood pressure or a heart condition, severely anemic individuals, and people who’ve recently experienced a stroke. Always speak with your doctor before opting for cryotherapy.
Professional Cryotherapy Service
If you’re still on the fence about the safety of cryotherapy, rest assured, we have the proper knowledge, skills, and equipment at our facility to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. What is more, we have hosted more than 38,000 cryotherapy sessions, helping thousands of new and existing clients on their path to holistic healing.
When in doubt, contact Recovery Lab to learn more about cryotherapy. We’d be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have!
