Cryotherapy is a revolutionary treatment that is designed to improve physical health, and heal injuries. Cryotherapy exposes the body to frigid temperatures, so people considering treatment generally want to know if the procedure is cold.
What is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a therapeutic treatment that exposes the body to extreme cold temperatures for a short time. The treatment is done using a whole body cryotherapy chamber that resembles a glass-door shower, but often has an opening at the top. Cryotherapy is commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation, and improve circulation.
Is Cryotherapy Cold?
The temperature in the cryotherapy chamber can range from -170 to -270 degrees Fahrenheit, but the procedure is done using ultra-cooled nitrogen gas. The nitrogen gas is very dry, so there is the sensation of coldness, but most patients find it comfortable despite the drop in skin temperature. In fact, some patients say that they expected cryotherapy to feel colder than it did.
Cryotherapy does not freeze the skin, as long as patients take the necessary precautions, e.g. they are advised to wear dry socks, gloves, and slippers to protect extremities.
How does cryotherapy work?
During the procedure patients stand in the cryotherapy chamber and are exposed to liquid nitrogen, during a 2-4 minute session. The frigid cold causes the blood to flow towards the vital organs, which has the effect of improving injuries, and boosting overall well-being (learn more).
How many treatments do I need?
If you are interested in improving overall health with Cryotherapy, doctors recommend 1-2 treatments a week. However, if you would like to treat pain or inflammation, they recommend 2-4 sessions a week.