The Benefits of Cryotherapy!

Cryotherapy, or “Cold” therapy, is exposure of the body to extremely cold temperatures for a few minutes  treating potential health issues. Cryotherapy can be done on one small area, or by treating the whole body. We have all used the method of applying an ice pack to an injured body part and seen the health benefits gained from reduction in pain and inflammation. What happens when we expose the whole body to extreme cold and what are the benefits?

Whole-body cryotherapy at Arctic Wellness Cryo and Float in Bakersfield is delivered by standing in a chamber or enclosed area that surrounds the whole body with an opening for the head. The temperature can drop below negative 200 degrees Fahrenheit, for between 1 and 3 minutes. The exposure to these extreme temperatures increases adrenaline, noradrenaline, and endorphins. These physiological hormonal responses in the body offer several types of health benefits. Just one session can provide benefits, but the results are longer term and more beneficial if performed regularly.

Reduction in Pain and Inflammation

We know that applying cold to injuries can reduce pain and inflammation, well the same thing happens throughout the whole body when exposing the whole body to extreme cold. Pain from arthritis, joint and muscle injuries, nerves, auto-inflammatory conditions, etc., can all be reduced from cryotherapy treatment at Arctic Wellness Cryo and Float in Bakersfield, CA. According to the National Institutes of Health, one study (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10832164), showed that there was significant reduction in pain following cryotherapy treatment for four weeks on 120 male and females who had all suffered from pain for over four years, with a variety of issues such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic low back pain, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, and other autoimmune diseases. All patients reported significant reduction in pain. Many reported an ability to increase their physical and occupational therapy sessions due to the reduction in pain and inflammation.

Weight Loss

When undergoing cryotherapy your body is exposed to a dramatic drop in temperature in a very short period of time. This will cause your body to boost its metabolic rate to burn more calories to keep you warm. Your body functions on energy, and that energy comes from mitochondria, tiny organelles within your cells. A study published in Bioscience Reports (https://portlandpress.com/bioscirep/article/37/5/BSR20171087/56950/Mild-cold-induced-thermogenesis-are-BAT-and?searchresult=1) shows that when the body is exposed to cold it builds up mitochondria-rich brown adipose tissue (BAT). The BAT helps your body to generate heat, which lowers blood sugar and decreases insulin resistance. As your body is exposed to severe cold, it adjusts and increases your overall metabolic rate.

Reduce Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety

Cryotherapy at Arctic Wellness Cryo and Float can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety according to the National Institutes of Health. The study (https://portlandpress.com/bioscirep/article/37/5/BSR20171087/56950/Mild-cold-induced-thermogenesis-are-BAT-and?searchresult=1) showed that after 15 daily treatments of cryotherapy, the patients reported over a 50% decrease in their symptoms. This occurs as a result of the physiological hormonal response that occur during cryotherapy – increasing adrenaline, noradrenaline, and endorphins. These hormonal changes have a positive effect on those suffering from mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Reduce Risk of Cognitive Decline of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

It is believed that vascular alterations, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The National Institutes of Health posted a study (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22541861) that showed the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects of cryotherapy help to prevent cognitive decline. If you suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or have a family history, don’t delay in starting cryotherapy at Arctic Wellness Cryo and Float to help prevent cognitive decline.

Additional Health Benefits

There are many other health benefits from cryotherapy due to the overall improvement of mitochondrial function within the body. These additional health benefits include:

• Strengthen Joint Tissue
• Increase Blood Circulation
• Increase Recovery Rate of Muscle and Joint Injuries
• Improve Muscle Function and Strength
• Improve Mental Focus
• Reduce Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Symptoms

If you are considering cryotherapy, talk with your doctor to determine if it may be right for you. Then come experience the many health benefits of cryotherapy at Arctic Wellness Cryo and Float!