Cryotherapy has been gaining popularity as a pain management solution in recent years, and for good reason. It is simple, non-invasive, and effective. Cryotherapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, inflammation, and muscle soreness. In this article, we will explore how cryotherapy works, its benefits, and its potential risks.
What is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for a short period of time. There are different types of cryotherapies, but in reality, every time you have used ice to help calm down inflammation in a hurt knee, you’ve been using cryotherapy.
Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) refers to exposing the entire body to extremely low temperatures that range from -120 to -140 degrees Celsius on average. Typical treatment time with this type of therapy is two to three minutes and it takes place within a specialized unit called a CryoChamber.
How does cryotherapy help with pain?
Cryotherapy works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the body. When exposed to extremely cold temperatures, the blood vessels in the body constrict, which reduces blood flow and swelling in the affected area. This process also stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body.
One of the main benefits of cryotherapy is its ability to reduce pain. Many people who suffer from chronic pain, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, find relief from their symptoms after undergoing cryotherapy treatments. It can also be used to treat acute injuries, such as sprains or strains, by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area.
Cryotherapy has been well documented for pain relief, but the benefits extend past that. It has been found to have a positive effect on mental health. The release of endorphins during the treatment can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Those dealing with pain issues can especially benefit from this effect.
What type of pain can cryotherapy help with?
Joint pain: Cryotherapy can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints, which can provide relief for conditions such as arthritis, gout, and bursitis.
Muscle soreness: Cryotherapy can help reduce muscle soreness and stiffness, especially after intense exercise or physical activity.
Back pain: Cryotherapy can help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area.
Headaches and migraines: Cryotherapy can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with headaches and migraines by reducing inflammation and promoting circulation.
Nerve pain: Cryotherapy can help reduce nerve transmissions in the fibers that cause pain and by reducing inflammation and swelling.
Post-surgery pain: Cryotherapy can help reduce pain and swelling after surgical procedures, particularly in the areas of the body where the surgery was performed.
Fibromyalgia: Cryotherapy can provide relief for the widespread pain and discomfort associated with fibromyalgia by reducing inflammation and promoting circulation.
Cryotherapy is a non-invasive pain management solution that can provide many benefits for those suffering from chronic pain, inflammation, or muscle soreness. It works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the body, promoting healing, and releasing natural painkillers.
It is safe, effective and easily available! If you are curious about how cryotherapy could help you with your pain issues, give us a call at (417) 360-1044.
