Cryotherapy
Whole-body cryotherapy exposes the body to extreme cold (−110 °C to −160 °C) for 2–4 minutes to trigger systemic anti-inflammatory and analgesic responses. Originally developed in Japan in 1978, it is now used globally for recovery, chronic pain, inflammation, mental health, and longevity.
Evidence Summary
Strong clinical evidence supports WBC for post-exercise recovery, chronic pain management, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and depression. Moderate evidence exists for multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, menopause symptoms, cardiovascular training, and immune modulation. Emerging research covers post-COVID rehabilitation, tinnitus, and skin rejuvenation.
Clinical Applications
Medical & Rehabilitation
Sport & Performance
Wellness & Longevity
How it Works
Extreme cold triggers rapid peripheral vasoconstriction, redirecting blood to the core. Post-exposure vasodilation draws oxygen-rich blood back to tissues. WBC reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) while increasing IL-10. Norepinephrine increases 200–300%, contributing to mood elevation and pain reduction. The gate-control mechanism of cold-sensitive A-delta thermoreceptors suppresses pain signal transmission.
Key Studies (5)
WBC significantly reduced DOMS at 24h, 48h, and 72h post-exercise
British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2022
15 consecutive cryotherapy sessions significantly improved fibromyalgia outcomes
Bettoni (2013), Clinical Rheumatology
WBC as adjunct therapy reduced depression scores 34.6% more than medication alone
Rymaszewska (2020), Frontiers in Psychiatry
Cryotherapy decreased histamine levels in rheumatoid arthritis patients
PubMed 20020313
Norepinephrine increased 200–300% with long-term cold exposure
Leppäluoto et al. (2008), Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation