Cryotherapy has emerged as a popular treatment for anti-aging and overall well-being. Rita Colorito, writing for WebMD, highlights that while cryotherapy’s origins trace back to ancient Greece, it has surged in popularity thanks to modern cryosaunas and wellness clinics. Despite the excitement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) for treating medical conditions, underscoring the need for more research.
What Is Cryotherapy and How Does It Work?
Cryotherapy is an umbrella term for treatments that use extremely cold temperatures, including ice packs, cold-water immersion (CWI), and whole-body cryotherapy (WBC). In WBC, individuals stand in specially designed chambers cooled to temperatures as low as -200°F to -300°F for short periods, usually two to four minutes.
The extreme cold is believed to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and trigger the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters like endorphins and norepinephrine. However, due to the inability to blind participants in cryotherapy studies, some experts question whether its benefits stem from physiological changes or a placebo effect.
Benefits of Cryotherapy
- Anti-Aging Effects: Proponents claim cryotherapy can reduce oxidative stress, a major factor in skin aging. The cold exposure may boost collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce wrinkles.
- Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often turn to cryotherapy to alleviate muscle soreness, reduce inflammation, and speed up recovery after intense workouts.
- Mood Enhancement: Exposure to cold triggers the release of endorphins and norepinephrine, potentially alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Improved Circulation: Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and inflammation. Once the session ends, blood flow increases, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues.
- Potential Weight Loss Aid: Although evidence remains limited, some claim that exposure to extreme cold stimulates metabolism and increases calorie burn.
- Skin Conditions: Cryotherapy has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.
Conditions Cryotherapy Might Address
Cryotherapy, particularly WBC, is marketed as a potential treatment for various conditions, including:
- Chronic back pain
- Depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraines
- Multiple sclerosis-related fatigue and pain
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Anxiety
- Tinnitus
Medical cryotherapy, such as cryosurgery, has long been used to treat localized conditions like warts, skin cancers, and certain tumors.
The Drawbacks and Risks of Cryotherapy
While many users report positive experiences, cryotherapy is not without risks:
- Frostbite: Prolonged or improper exposure to extreme cold can cause severe skin damage.
- Dizziness and Discomfort: Sudden exposure to freezing temperatures may cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Cardiovascular Stress: Cold exposure can spike blood pressure and put stress on the heart.
- Rashes and Skin Irritations: Cold panniculitis and urticaria (hives) are known side effects.
- Severe Reactions: Rare but serious complications include cerebral bleeding, transient memory loss, and frozen limbs.
Who Should Avoid Cryotherapy?
Certain individuals should avoid WBC, including those with:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Poor circulation
- Claustrophobia
- Open wounds or skin infections
- Acute respiratory illnesses
Pregnant women and individuals with unmanaged chronic conditions should also consult their healthcare providers before trying cryotherapy.
The Bottom Line
Cryotherapy presents exciting potential benefits for anti-aging, muscle recovery, and mood enhancement, but the science is still evolving. Rita Colorito and WebMD caution that while many users report positive outcomes, the lack of FDA approval and limited long-term studies mean cryotherapy should be approached with caution.
If you’re considering cryotherapy, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s safe for you. Whether you’re seeking an anti-aging hack, pain relief, or a mental health boost, cryotherapy remains a chilly frontier in the wellness world—promising, but not without its risks.