As we gain a greater understanding of the human body, modern wellness therapies have emerged as revolutionary ways to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall well-being. One such cutting-edge treatment is whole-body cryotherapy.
At the Health & Wellness Clinic, our expertise goes beyond chiropractic care. We understand the importance of offering comprehensive treatment options that address the diverse needs of our patients. That’s why we’re proud to offer whole-body cryotherapy, which provides a wide array of advantages, whether used in tandem with other treatments or on its own.
Keep reading to learn more about the science behind whole-body cryotherapy as we explore how this innovative approach works and the myriad benefits it can offer.
Understanding Whole-Body Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for short periods of time. While this may sound intimidating or dangerous, cryotherapy is safe and effective when administered by trained professionals. The whole-body cryotherapy process involves entering a specialized chamber where liquid nitrogen is used to cool the air around you, creating temperatures ranging from 200 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit below zero. The whole process only takes 2.5 to 3.5 minutes.
While whole-body cryotherapy as we know it today is a relatively new treatment, people have been harnessing the healing power of cold temperatures for millennia. In fact, the oldest known medical text, the Edwin Smith Papyrus discovered in Egypt, makes numerous references to the use of cold temperatures as a type of therapy. This tells us that ancient civilizations as far back as 3500 B.C. were aware of the health benefits that come with targeted cold exposure.
Your Body’s Response to Cold Temperatures
So, how exactly does subjecting yourself to such frigid temperatures lead to therapeutic benefits? The key lies in your body’s natural response to cold exposure.
When you’re exposed to cold temperatures, your body’s natural defense mechanism kicks in. Your blood vessels constrict in a process called vasoconstriction, helping reduce blood flow to your extremities and redirect it to your vital organs to maintain your core body temperature. This process also temporarily numbs nerve endings, which can alleviate pain and discomfort.
After your whole-body cryotherapy session, your body will undergo a process called vasodilation in which blood vessels expand and blood flow increases — essentially the opposite of vasoconstriction. This surge in blood circulation delivers oxygen and essential nutrients to tissues throughout the body, which promotes rejuvenation and healing.
The effects of whole-body cryotherapy go beyond the physical. The sudden temperature shift from cold to warm triggers the release of endorphins — your body’s feel-good hormones — and can induce a sense of euphoria and enhanced well-being.
Benefits of Whole-Body Cryotherapy
One of the most beneficial effects of whole-body cryotherapy is its ability to calm inflammation. Inflammation is your body’s natural response to illness or injury, but chronic inflammation is another story. It can contribute to a number of health problems, including stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. By cooling the body and reducing inflammation, whole-body cryotherapy can help you find relief from conditions such as tendonitis, arthritis, and muscle soreness.
Whole-body cryotherapy has gained popularity among athletes due to its ability to enhance performance and accelerate recovery. Intense exercise can cause muscle fatigue and microtrauma, leading to delayed onset muscle soreness. By reducing inflammation and promoting muscle recovery, cryotherapy enables athletes to reach peak performance and bounce back faster.
In addition to its physical benefits, whole-body cryotherapy is known to have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. As we mentioned before, the cold sensation releases dopamine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters associated with stress reduction and mood regulation. Many patients report feeling energized, focused, and invigorated after a whole-body cryotherapy session.
You may be thinking, I have a bathtub at home…can I just fill it with ice? Ice baths are also beneficial, but cryotherapy is more comfortable because it eliminates the shock of the sudden plunge. Plus, the lack of humidity prevents frostbite, and since your body’s core temperature remains warm, you don’t risk hypothermia.
Special Considerations
While whole-body cryotherapy offers significant advantages for many individuals, it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, you may need to sit this one out or consult with a healthcare professional before treatment.
Whole-Body Cryotherapy in Layton, Utah
At the Health & Wellness clinic, we are proud to provide safe, effective whole-body cryotherapy treatments tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or seeking relief from chronic pain, cryotherapy may be the perfect way for you to chill out and achieve enhanced overall well-being.
