Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy, also known as “cold therapy,” is a health & wellness modality where the body is exposed to extremely cold temperatures for a short time span of several minutes. Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) is performed by immersing the body in cold air for several minutes, thus causing various health benefits. Here at the Shin Center, our whole-body cryotherapy chamber utilizes the latest technology; most chambers only have a “cooling” ability, however, our chamber creates heat as well, to increase the temperature differential.
The individual will stand in a small open chamber that surrounds their body but has an opening for their head and neck at the top. The enclosure will drop to between negative 249-321°F, utilizing sublimated gas from a liquid nitrogen source. If the Thermo-Constrast setting is chosen, they’ll start with the heat around 176°F, stay in the ultra-low temperature air for one minute, then the temperature will rise again, then back to two minutes of the ultra-low temperature. This increased temperature change allows the body to further circulate blood and lymph throughout your circulatory system, thus enhancing healing. If the regular setting is chosen, the cold air will simply surround the body, without the heat contrast, for 3 min. Although you can get benefits from just one session of cryotherapy, it’s most effective when used regularly. Some athletes use cryotherapy every week for its healing benefits.
Many athletes have been using cryotherapy to treat injuries because it can numb superficial pain nerve fibers. This can help treat pinched nerves, chronic pain, or even acute injuries. Whole-body cryotherapy has also been shown to reduce pain in patients with arthritic conditions.
The ultra-cold temperatures in whole-body cryotherapy can also cause the natural release of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and endorphins. This can have a beneficial effect on those experiencing mood disorders like anxiety and depression.
The most common side effects of cryotherapy are numbness, tingling, redness, and irritation of the skin. These side effects are almost always temporary, and just after the treatment. Patients with diabetes or any neuropathic conditions that affect their nerves sensation should not use cryotherapy. They may be unable to fully feel its effect, which could lead to further nerve damage.
If you have any conditions you want to treat with cryotherapy, make sure you discuss them with one of our physicians. This modality is exclusively reserved for our established patients. If you’re interested in trying our unique cryotherapy chamber to feel its effects or other South Jersey alternative medicine, please call our office to schedule an appointment or consultation today! (856)-270-6800