The Top 5 Benefits of Cryotherapy

What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is a treatment that involves exposing the body to very low temperatures (usually between -110°C to -160°C) for a short period of time, typically 2-4 minutes. A typical Whole Body Cryotherapy session takes place in what is known as a “Cryotherapy chamber”, which can be either a walk in room like we have at Huemn, or a cylindrical shaped chamber that your head sticks out of.

The purpose of Whole Body Cryotherapy is to briefly expose your body to subzero temperatures, thereby triggering your body’s “Fight or Flight” mechanism. This trigger enacts your body’s survival instincts for a very brief period of time, which lead to the up-regulation (production) of endorphins. There are a myriad of whole body benefits that Whole Body Cryotherapy provides, but today, we’re going to go over the top five benefits of getting cold!

cryotherapy reduces inflammation

Did you know that Whole Body Cryotherapy was invented for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis? An inflammatory disorder by definition, Rheumatoid Arthritis’ hallmark symptoms are pain, swelling, loss of mobility, and overwhelming fatigue. In 1978, Japanese physician, Dr. Yamaguchi developed a protocol for his Rheumatoid Arthritis patients where their entire bodies were exposed to below freezing temperatures for very short periods. Much to his surprise, his patients reported pain relief, better managed inflammation, and less debilitating RA symptoms. Thus, Whole Body Cryotherapy was born.

Cryotherapy can reduce inflammation by constricting blood vessels and limiting the flow of fluid to areas of swelling. When the body is exposed to very cold temperatures, the blood vessels in the area constrict and then dilate, which can help to increase blood flow after the treatment. The constriction of blood vessels during the treatment can also help to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Inflammation is a natural response of the body's immune system to injury or infection. It can cause pain, redness, and swelling. Cryotherapy can help to reduce the severity of the inflammatory response by slowing down the flow of blood to the area, which can limit the accumulation of inflammatory cells and chemicals in the tissue. This can help to reduce pain, swelling, and promote healing.

Cryotherapy can also cause the body to release anti-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that help to reduce inflammation. This can help to further reduce inflammation in the body.

It's important to note that while cryotherapy has potential benefits for reducing inflammation, it may not be appropriate for everyone, and there are some risks and side effects associated with the treatment. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider before trying cryotherapy, especially if you have any medical conditions or concerns.

Cryotherapy Relieves Pain

Cryotherapy can reduce pain by numbing nerve endings and reducing muscle spasms. When the body is exposed to very cold temperatures, it can cause a numbing effect that can reduce the sensation of pain. This can be particularly helpful for people who are experiencing acute pain, such as pain from an injury or after surgery.

Cryotherapy can also help to reduce muscle spasms by reducing the amount of inflammation in the area. When the body is injured, it can cause muscle spasms as a protective mechanism to prevent further damage. By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, cryotherapy can help to reduce muscle spasms and relieve pain.

Additionally, cryotherapy can trigger the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body. Endorphins can help to block pain signals and promote a sense of well-being.

Localized cryotherapy, which involves applying cold air or a gel pack to a specific area of the body, can be particularly effective for reducing pain in a specific area. This form of cryotherapy can be used for conditions such as tendonitis, arthritis, and muscle strains.

It's important to note that while cryotherapy has potential benefits for reducing pain, it may not be appropriate for everyone, and there are some risks and side effects associated with the treatment. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider before trying cryotherapy, especially if you have any medical conditions or concerns.

Cryotherapy Improves Mood

Cryotherapy can improve mood by triggering the release of endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals produced by the body. Endorphins can help to reduce stress and anxiety and promote feelings of well-being. When the body is exposed to very cold temperatures during Whole Body Cryotherapy, it can cause a physiological response that releases endorphins into the bloodstream. This can lead to an increase in energy and a sense of euphoria.

Cryotherapy can also have a psychological impact on mood. Some people find that the experience of being in a cold chamber can be invigorating and help them feel more awake and alert. In addition to the release of endorphins, cryotherapy can also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can help to alleviate pain and discomfort that may be contributing to negative mood states.

Cryotherapy Improves Skin Conditions

Cryotherapy can help improve certain skin conditions by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and promoting healing.

One way in which cryotherapy can help with skin conditions is by reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a common cause of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Cryotherapy can help to reduce inflammation by constricting blood vessels and limiting the flow of fluid to areas of swelling. This can help to alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and irritation.

Cryotherapy can also improve blood flow to the skin, which can help to promote healing. Improved blood flow can provide the skin with the nutrients and oxygen it needs to repair itself and maintain its health.

Another way in which cryotherapy can help with skin conditions is by promoting the production of collagen. Collagen is a protein that is essential for maintaining the strength and elasticity of the skin. Cryotherapy can stimulate the production of collagen, which can help to improve the appearance of the skin and reduce the signs of aging.

Cryotherapy may Boost the Immune System

Whole Body Cryotherapy may improve the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells and activating the body's natural defense mechanisms. This happens because during a typical cryotherapy session, the body is exposed to very cold temperatures, which can trigger the “fight or flight” response activatig the sympathetic nervous system. When your sympathetic nervous system activates, this can cause an increase in WBC production. You can think of your white blood cells as your body’s soldiers, their main purpose is to protect and defend your body from foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses. When you body produces more white blood cells, there is a higher likelihood of fighting off potential illness-causing pathogens.

Cryotherapy can also cause the body to release cytokines, which are proteins that play a role in the immune system's response to infection and inflammation. These cytokines can help to regulate the immune response, promote healing, and reduce inflammation. Furthermore, cryotherapy can improve circulation, which can help to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues, including the immune system. Improved circulation can also help to remove waste products and toxins from the body.

Cryotherapy in Houston, TX

For the last seven years, Huemn - Optimization + Longevity has provided Houston and surrounding areas with safe and effective Whole Body Cryotherapy. We have helped thousands of individuals dealing with chronic pain, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and athletic recovery. If you are interested in visiting either location for a complimentary Whole Body Cryotherapy session, feel free to click the button below. We can’t wait to get you on the road to recovery!