Where did Whole Body Cryotherapy originate?

Whole Body Cryotherapy was originally developed in Japan in 1978 for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.  It has been researched for decades in Europe. 

 

Is Cryotherapy a proven treatment for recovery and health?

Yes, Cryotherapy has been developed and refined for over 30 years in Europe and Asia.  A recent National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) review of the evidence supporting the benefits of Cryotherapy can be found here.

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How does Cryotherapy work?

The client steps into the Cryosauna where hyper-cooled air from gasiform nitrogen flows over the body, lowering the skin surface temperature to 32-35F in 30-40 seconds.  The body reacts to the skin sensors by stimulating the regulatory functions. 

 

What do I wear?

We will provide you with 2 pairs of dry socks, rubber-soled shoes, and a robe. Once you are in the Cryosauna you will remove the robe and wear only your underwear to optimize skin exposure. Women wear a sports bra and underwear. Men wear boxers or briefs. Only your head will be showing, so modesty will be preserved at all times.

 

Will I be able to endure the cold?  Is it comfortable?

It is a completely dry gaseous cold and is surprisingly tolerable.  Everyone’s cold tolerance is different, but most people find the procedure quite bearable.  No skin tissues, muscles, or organs are frozen.

 

Do I have to take a shower before and/or after the session?

No. This procedure is completely dry and does not make your skin wet. 

 

How will I feel after I finish a treatment?

During each session, the body releases endorphins which increase your energy and improve your mood.  These buoyant effects often last up to 6-8 hours.  Many clients express that they have a great night’s sleep after Cryotherapy. 

 

Is Nitrogen gas dangerous?

The air we breathe is 78% Nitrogen, 16% Oxygen, 1% Hydrogen, and 5% other components.  Nitrogen is an inert gas.  It is non-flammable and non-toxic.  The client does not directly breathe in the nitrogen gas as their head is elevated above the top of the Cryosauna.  Additionally, an oxygen sensor monitors proper ventilation at all times.

 

Who should not use Whole Body Cryotherapy?

The following conditions are contraindications to Whole Body Cryotherapy: Pregnancy, severe Hypertension (BP> 180/100), acute or recent myocardial infarction, unstable angina pectoris, arrhythmia, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, cardiac pacemaker, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, venous thrombosis, acute or recent cerebrovascular accident, uncontrolled seizures, Raynaud’s Syndrome, fever, tumor disease, symptomatic lung disorders, bleeding disorders, severe anemia, infection, cold allergy, acute kidney and urinary tract diseases.

 

What are the risks of Whole Body Cryotherapy?

Whole Body Cryotherapy is very well tolerated and has minimal risks.  Fluctuations in blood pressure during the procedure up to 10 points systolically (this effect reverses after the end of the procedure as peripheral circulation returns to normal), allergic reaction to extreme cold (rare), claustrophobia, anxiety, activation of some viral conditions (cold sores) etc. due to stimulation of the immune system.  

 

Can I work out after a Cryotherapy session?

YES!  In fact, it’s recommended that 5-10 minutes of light exercise be performed after Cryotherapy.  The movement will promote more rapid vasodilatation (expansion of body’s blood vessels) and can extend the feelings of well-being.

 

How often should I use it?

Some people see a significant improvement after just 1 or 2 sessions.  It’s best to establish a baseline of 5 sessions in close succession (once per day or each session within 24-48hrs) and see how your body reacts and see the health benefits take form. Then maintenance session 1 - 3 times per week.

 

Who is using it?

10 NBA teams (San Antonio Spurs NBA Champs 2014, Dallas Mavs 2011 NBA Champs)

NFL – Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos 

NHL Teams (NY Rangers – Stanley Cup Finals 2014)

MLB – Washington Nationals, Texas Rangers

Olympic Gold Medalists – Usain Bolt, U.S. Track and Field

Cristiano Ronaldo – World’s Best Soccer player (Portugal)

UFC fighters

Nike – Alberto Salazar (U.S. Olympic marathon coach)

ESPN Wide World of Sports (Tim Shaw – NFL pre-combine training)

Dancing with the Stars

NCAA Universities – Auburn, Alabama, TCU, SMU

TV – Dr. OZ, The Doctors