Cryotherapy is a treatment that involves exposing your body to extremely low temperatures for a short period, typically 2-3 minutes. Although cold temperatures do not seem fun at first, this treatment offers several benefits. Cryotherapy has gained popularity recently due to its potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and enhancing muscle recovery. Your Regenerative & Sports Medicine specialist can administer the treatment using whole-body chambers or localized treatments.
How to prepare for cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves exposing your body to extremely low temperatures to promote healing and reduce inflammation. If you plan on undergoing cryotherapy, prepare your body beforehand to ensure a safe and effective treatment. Your doctor may give you instructions during your consultation to help you prepare. Before the procedure, you should hydrate yourself by drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration and increase blood flow, which can improve the effectiveness of the treatment.
Additionally, you should avoid consuming alcohol or caffeine before your session. These substances can constrict your blood vessels and make it harder for your body to adjust to the cold. Your doctor may also advise wearing appropriate clothing, such as loose-fitting shorts and a T-shirt or tank top. Avoid wearing jewelry or metal objects that could become cold and cause skin irritation or frostbite. Lastly, discussing any medical conditions or concerns with your healthcare provider before undergoing cryotherapy would be best.
What to expect during a cryotherapy session
Before the treatment, you will typically change into a robe and socks, as you will be standing in a cryotherapy chamber. Your provider will then ask you to step into the chamber and provide you with gloves and slippers to protect your extremities. During the treatment, the temperature in the chamber will drop to -110 to -140 degrees Celsius, and you will have to turn around every 30 seconds to ensure that all parts of your body are exposed to the cold. Your doctor will monitor you throughout the treatment to ensure you are comfortable and safe. During the first minute of the treatment, you may feel intense cold on your skin, but as your body adapts to the temperature, you may feel tingling. After the treatment, you will change back into your clothes and may feel an immediate sense of invigoration or energy.
What to expect after the procedure
After a cryotherapy session, you will experience several physical and mental benefits. Initially, you may feel a tingling or numbing sensation in the treated area, but this should subside fairly quickly. You may also feel a sense of invigoration or even euphoria, as cryotherapy is known to release endorphins and other feel-good chemicals in the brain. Regarding physical benefits, cryotherapy can reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and enhance muscle recovery. It may also help alleviate pain and stiffness, particularly in those with arthritis or fibromyalgia. Over time, regular cryotherapy sessions may lead to improved athletic performance, better sleep quality, and a stronger immune system. However, it is important to note that cryotherapy is not suitable for everyone, and some patients experience side effects such as skin irritation, dizziness, or numbness.