When it comes to pain management and reducing inflammation, cryotherapy is becoming a popular treatment option. While hot temperature treatments, such as saunas, offer a range of benefits, the opposite also offers something worthwhile.
This article will cover the benefits and mechanisms behind cryotherapy. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
What is cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is the use of extremely cold temperatures to treat pain, inflammation, and a whole list of other conditions. This treatment has been around for centuries, and has seen a recent resurgence amongst athletes in recent years.
The treatment most often found in medical spas is a version of cryotherapy called whole-body cryotherapy (WBC). Using cutting-edge technology, the body is exposed to temperatures as low as -140°C (-220°F). During the treatment, patients are placed into a cryo-chamber filled with liquid nitrogen for 2-5 minutes. While this may sound like science fiction, the process is fairly simple thanks to advances in technology. Additionally, it has been shown to offer multiple benefits for all types of individuals.
Cryotherapy benefits
When it comes to physical health, cryotherapy has a number of benefits. It can reduce inflammation and pain caused by arthritis, muscle strains, and other injuries. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it useful for treating high blood pressure. Additionally, many athletes enjoy this treatment for both reduced pain, reduced recovery times, and its potential for weight loss.
This is one of the quickest treatments found in modern-day medical spas—offering benefits in just under three minutes. There are a number of mental benefits as well, such as reduced anxiety, depression, and overall alertness during the day.
How to get started with cryotherapy
If you’re curious about cryotherapy and its potential benefits, the best thing to do is consult with a qualified medical professional. Should you choose to participate in this therapy, you will be guided by a professional into a cryo-chamber for a tracked amount of time. The treatment will feel very cold at first causing your body to kickstart various mechanisms that result in the previously mentioned benefits.
Additionally, patients may enjoy other treatments before or after cryotherapy including light cardio or psychotherapy—which can help heighten the mental benefits.
Takeaway
Cryotherapy is a powerful and versatile treatment for those looking to reduce pain, inflammation, and certain mental disorders. While the cold temperatures may seem daunting at first, this unique treatment offers a whole list of benefits in just under five minutes. If you would like to learn more about this treatment, locate a Medspas near you through one of our listings.