Cryotherapy is the use of very low temperatures to bring therapeutic effects to the body. It can be applied locally to one part of the body, such as a knee or shoulder, or to the entire body through whole-body cryotherapy chambers .
This therapy works by lowering the temperature of tissues, which reduces blood flow, slows cellular activity, and decreases pain signals. These effects make it a popular option for treating injuries, skin problems, and even supporting athletic recovery .
Although cryotherapy may bring benefits like pain relief, reduced inflammation, and improved recovery, it can also have risks and is not safe for everyone.
How does cryotherapy work?
Cryotherapy reduces tissue temperature, which affects blood flow, nerve activity, and metabolism. The cold causes blood vessels in the skin and extremities to narrow, preserving body temperature and reducing swelling .
The cooling effect slows down nerve conduction, which reduces pain signals and creates a numbing sensation . At the same time, the body responds by releasing stress hormones and activating brown fat, which increases calorie burning and thermogenesis .
Benefits of cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is often used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis, tendon injuries, and after surgery. Studies show it decreases inflammatory markers and provides significant pain relief .
Athletes commonly use whole-body cryotherapy to recover after intense exercise. Research shows it reduces delayed-onset muscle soreness, lowers markers of muscle damage, and speeds recovery .
In dermatology, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen treats warts, precancerous lesions, and some skin cancers. Cure rates for actinic keratoses and warts are high, making it a widely used treatment . Other potential benefits under research include improved mood, reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, and enhanced metabolism .
Types of cryotherapy treatments
Cryotherapy can be classified as:
1. Localized cryotherapy
Traditional methods use ice packs, gel packs, or sprays at temperatures between -20°C and -30°C for 5 to 10 minutes. Ice massage provides deeper cooling, while modern devices use cryogenic air streams to cool skin rapidly .
2. Whole-body cryotherapy chambers
These include electric chambers, which provide a safe, breathable environment, and nitrogen-based cryosaunas, which use vapor to reach -110°C to -170°C. Sessions typically last 2 to 3 minutes .
3. Medical cryotherapy
Liquid nitrogen is applied with swabs or sprays to freeze skin lesions or cancers. Internal tumors can also be treated using cryoprobes with nitrogen, argon, or carbon dioxide .
What to expect during cryotherapy
Sessions usually last only a few minutes, depending on the method. Athletes may use it several times a week, while dermatological applications may be spaced every few weeks .
Common sensations include intense cold, tingling, numbness, and sometimes mild pain or headache. After treatment, patients may feel euphoria due to hormone release . For skin applications, redness, swelling, and blistering may occur as part of the healing process .
Aftercare includes keeping the skin clean, avoiding sun exposure, and protecting treated areas. For whole-body treatments, protective gear like gloves and socks must always be worn .
Risks and side effects
Mild side effects include temporary redness, tingling, numbness, or mild pain . In dermatological uses, blistering is expected and part of the healing .
Serious risks include frostbite, nerve damage, skin burns, and breathing problems in nitrogen-based chambers if oxygen levels are not properly monitored . Proper supervision and safety protocols are essential for minimizing risks .
Contraindications
Cryotherapy is not safe for everyone. People with cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, Raynaud’s syndrome, severe vascular disease, or cold allergies should not undergo this therapy . It is also contraindicated in pregnancy, after recent heart attacks, with pacemakers, or in people with open wounds, severe infections, or certain neurological disorders .
Children, people with numbness in treatment areas, and those with chronic conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disease should only consider cryotherapy with medical supervision .
When to seek medical advice
Signs of complications such as severe frostbite, intense swelling, fever, or infection should be evaluated immediately . Unusual skin changes, persistent pain, or systemic symptoms like chest pain or dizziness require medical attention .
People with chronic illnesses, a history of cold sensitivity, or those considering cryotherapy for medical rather than wellness purposes should consult a healthcare professional beforehand.