A Guide to Discovering Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy has been around for years, and until recently, the treatment was mostly utilized by famous athletes. While stepping into a tank ranging between freezing or near-freezing temperatures can seem questionable, there are multiple benefits to cryotherapy to receive for a more balanced life.
What is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy originated from Japan in the 1970s when Dr. Toshima Yamauchi searched for a remedy for rheumatoid arthritis. The cold therapy treatment brought success to the disease while also alleviating muscle pain and swelling. The treatment spread rapidly reaching multiple continents, including Europe. It wasn’t long until trainers and physical therapists began picking up the practice for their athletes and patients. The treatment continues to be used by physical therapists to assist with injuries by reducing pain and speeding up recovery time.
Cryotherapy treatment immerses the body into freezing temperatures for 1-3 minutes. Temperatures can range from -200°F to -300°F. However, the process is more complex than experiencing a cold winter day.
The Science Behind Cryotherapy
Ease pain and inflammation from diseases such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia within minutes when using cryotherapy. During treatment, the body is completely immersed in extremely low temperatures to achieve healing benefits. The low temperature allows for a method of kinesitherapy to assist with rheumatic diseases and multiple sclerosis treatment. Aside from increasing the body’s natural painkillers, such as cortisone and endorphin levels to deliver healing, cryotherapy also soothes skin conditions. The effects of skin diseases can be bothersome. Cryotherapy acts as a sedative to ease the reactions of skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
While the ancient practice has multiple health benefits for diseases, cryotherapy has anti-aging effects that increase the production of collagen, promote healthier skin, and activate the body’s metabolism. Athletes can also immerse in the benefits by experiencing a reduced recovery time and increased energy.
How Does Cryotherapy Work?
Entering into the freezing cryotherapy cabin prompts your body to respond to the dropping temperatures. The human body when put in unfamiliar conditions will work to survive. When experiencing freezing temperatures, the body will know immediately that it is impossible to preserve normal body temperature. As a result, the nervous system will respond. Below the skin, blood vessels and arteries will shrink, resulting in a reduction of blood flow to damaged tissue - this prohibits swelling to occur near an injury. Simultaneously, blood in the core of the body is proceeding to operate without disruption and is continuously fed oxygen, nutrients, and increased hormones. By the end of the session, the nutrient-rich blood fills the body and re-enters the location of pain or injury. The process lasts a few minutes and leaves the body feeling renewed.
Cryotherapy Vs. Ice Bath
New and more advanced therapies are constantly emerging that can help you feel stronger and heal faster. Whole body cryotherapy completely challenges ice bath. While the two therapies seem similar, it is essential to consider the pros and cons.
Cryotherapy Vs. Ice Bath - Benefits
Ice baths have minimum benefits that only help with recovery after a workout. Cryotherapy assists with recovery but can also improve
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anxiety and depression
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relieve pain
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restless leg syndrome
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Tinnitus
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Eczema
Cryotherapy Vs. Ice Bath - Time and Flexibility
Busy athletes tend not to have hours after a workout to wait and take an ice bath. Nevertheless, have 10 to 15 minutes every day to see maximum results. Cryotherapy is ideal as you can work out anytime before or after a 3-minute session. If you are always on the go, cryotherapy is the perfect fit.
Cryotherapy Vs. Ice Bath - Temperature
The low temperatures from -200°F to -300°F are what make cryotherapy effective. Ice baths generally are around 50°F to 60°F - a significant difference from -300°F.
Cryotherapy Vs. Ice Bath - Effectiveness
When it comes down to recovery, cryotherapy and ice baths are both effective - but cryotherapy is more convenient. Cryotherapy is faster and provides more benefits than an ice bath.
Is Cryotherapy Safe?
While there are a multitude of benefits to cryotherapy, entering into freezing temperatures may pose some concerns. Cryotherapy is safe for most users, but it's recommended to consult with your doctor before trying the treatment. Over time, the body will adjust to the temperature as it experiences frequent sessions.
Cryotherapy Precautions
While cryotherapy is beneficial for most users, it is recommended to check with your physician if you have the following health conditions:
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Blood clots
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Neuropathy
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Open wounds
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High blood pressure
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Raynaud’s disease
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Pregnant
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Sensitivity to cold
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Heart attack
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Blood vessel diseases