Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) is a cold therapy treatment method where the skin is exposed to temperatures between -200°F to -240°F for up to 3 minutes.
Numerous studies have been conducted and have shown that cryotherapy is a powerful treatment for reducing inflammation and pain symptoms associated with a wide range of chronic conditions.
- What is whole body cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is the practice of using cold temperatures to support healing and wellness and dates back to ancient civilizations. WBC is the modern application and stimulates the same rejuvenating and recovery benefits at a whole new level of cold.
- Is it like an ice bath?
Whole body cryotherapy is similar to an ice bath in that it is a cold therapy. There are key differences. A whole body cryotherapy session is a maximum of three-minutes and an ice-bath is approximately twenty-minutes. Cryotherapy is a dry, painless cold and an ice-bath, at a minimum, is uncomfortable. WBC cold only penetrates the top layers of skin; an ice bath penetrates into the muscles and joints which introduces the potential for tissue damage and the potential to lower the body’s core temperature. WBC cold dissipates quickly; ice bath cold dissipates gradually.
- Why do people use WBC?
People use whole body cryotherapy to compliment health and wellness initiatives. The Impact Industry Survey revealed the alternative modality provides relief from aches and pains to mental well-being.
- About the Process
Whole Body Cryotherapy is administered in a Cryosauna. Prior to your session, you will complete a questionnaire where you will be asked about any medical conditions.
You are then escorted to a private changing room where you will be provided with thermal socks, slippers, gloves, and a robe.
You will then step into the Cryosauna, where an Impact certified technician will begin your session. During this quick, noninvasive process, cool dry air will circulate around your body from the neck down and significantly lower your surface body temperature. As soon as the session is over, you will warm up quickly and feel refreshed and ready to pursue normal activities.
Possible risks and side effects
Common side effects of any type of cryotherapy are numbness, tingling, redness, and irritation of the skin. These side effects are almost always temporary.
You should never use cryotherapy for longer than is recommended for the method of therapy you’re using. For impact whole body cryotherapy, this would be more than three minutes. If you’re using an ice pack or ice bath at home, you should never apply ice to the area for more than 20 minutes. Wrap ice packs in a towel so you don’t damage your skin.
If you have any conditions you want to treat with cryotherapy, make sure you discuss them with the person assisting with or administering your session. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before using any type of therapy.
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