Cryotherapy: A Comprehensive Guide from The Right Spinal Clinic

Do you suffer from chronic muscle pain or lingering sports injuries? Perhaps you're a cancer patient seeking traditional treatment options. Cryotherapy, a therapy using extreme cold to destroy abnormal cells inside the body, has emerged as a potential solution for various physical and mental health concerns.

Here at The Right Spinal Clinic in Tampa, Florida, we're proud to offer cryotherapy services to our patients. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of cryotherapy, exploring its different applications, potential benefits, and everything in between.

We'll break down the various types of cryotherapy, including localized and whole-body options. You'll learn about how cryotherapy works (mechanism of action) to potentially reduce pain, inflammation, and even some mental health conditions. This guide will also address important considerations like potential side effects and whether cryotherapy is right for you.

So, whether you're seeking traditional cryotherapy for cancer treatment or are curious about the latest trends in sports recovery, this guide offers a comprehensive look at cryotherapy – its potential benefits, limitations, and everything in between. Let's explore the science behind the cold!

What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy, literally meaning "cold therapy," is a technique that utilizes extreme cold temperatures for various medical and wellness purposes. It comes in two main forms:

Localized cryotherapy

This targets a specific area of the body. Dermatologists often use cryotherapy to treat common skin conditions like warts, keloids, or to remove precancerous cells. Cryotherapy treatment can also be used for pain relief and reducing inflammation caused by injuries. 

Whole body cryotherapy (WBC)

This approach involves exposing your entire body to extremely cold temperatures (achieved with liquid nitrogen or argon gas) for a short duration, typically two to three minutes. Whole body cryotherapy is a relatively new therapy, and research on its benefits for various medical conditions is ongoing. Proponents claim it can improve muscle soreness, pain, anxiety, and depression. However, there's limited scientific evidence to definitively support these claims.

Cold Water Immersion

Cold water immersion is another form of cold therapy gaining popularity. Similar to localized cryotherapy, cold water immersion aims to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the immersed area. While research is ongoing, cold water immersion may offer a more accessible alternative to cryotherapy for some people. The mechanism of action for cold water immersion is similar to localized cryotherapy, but without the extreme cold temperatures.

How Does Cryotherapy Work? 

The mechanism of action for cryotherapy depends on the type used:

Here's a quick comparison:

Feature Localized Cryotherapy Whole-body Cryotherapy (WBC) Cold Water Immersion
Target Area Specific Entire Body Limbs, typically
Common Uses Skin conditions (warts, keloids), precancerous cells, pain relief Potential benefits for soreness, pain (limited evidence) Muscle soreness, pain relief, inflammation
Treatment Method Liquid nitrogen or argon gas probe applied directly to the treatment area Exposure to extremely cold temperatures (-200°F to -300°F) inside a chamber Submersion in cold water (typically 40-50°F)
Medical Use Established for various skin conditions and some cancers (cryosurgery/cryoablation) Not a recognized medical treatment May be used as a complementary therapy for some conditions
Side Effects Skin irritation, numbness, tingling Potential for frostbite if not administered properly Shivering, temporary discomfort

Benefits

Cryotherapy, while not a cure-all, has emerged as a trendy approach for various health and wellness concerns. Research is ongoing to solidify its effectiveness for all applications, but some potential benefits have been observed. Let's explore some of the ways cryotherapy may be helpful:

1. Pain Relief and Muscle Healing

Cryotherapy may be beneficial in reducing pain and inflammation, potentially aiding muscle recovery after exercise or injury. This effect of cryotherapy is similar to using traditional cold therapy methods like ice packs. When applied to a sore muscle or joint, the low temperature of cryotherapy may reduce pain by constricting blood vessels and numbing nerves in the treated area. This can be particularly helpful for athletes who experience muscle soreness after intense workouts. Cryotherapy treatment, specifically localized cryotherapy, is a well-established practice used by physical therapists and sports medicine professionals to manage pain and promote healing.

2. Weight Loss

While some claim cryotherapy can boost metabolism and promote weight loss, current evidence is inconclusive. The theory behind this potential benefit is that exposure to extreme cold temperatures forces the body to work harder to maintain its core temperature, thereby burning more calories. This process is similar to the body's response in a cold environment. However, studies haven't definitively shown that cryotherapy leads to significant weight loss.  More research is needed to determine whether cryotherapy can be a helpful tool for weight management, especially when combined with a healthy diet and exercise routine. It's important to remember that cryotherapy should not be solely relied upon for weight loss.

3. Reduced Inflammation

Cryotherapy's ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body is a potential benefit for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to a variety of health problems. Cryotherapy may help reduce inflammation by decreasing the production of inflammatory substances and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory substances. While cryotherapy shows promise for managing inflammation, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy for specific inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

4. Preventing Dementia

The theory is that by reducing inflammation, cryotherapy might also help prevent dementia. Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function that can interfere with daily life. Chronic inflammation is thought to be a contributing factor in the development of dementia, so the theory suggests that cryotherapy's anti-inflammatory properties could potentially help prevent it. However, there's limited evidence to definitively support this claim. More clinical trials are needed to determine whether cryotherapy can play a role in preventing dementia.

5. Preventing and Treating Cancer

It's important to distinguish between two uses of cryotherapy for cancer: cryosurgery and whole-body cryotherapy. Cryosurgery, or cryoablation, is a well-established medical procedure that uses extreme cold temperatures to destroy abnormal cells. This treatment is typically used for skin cancers and precancerous lesions by freezing and destroying the targeted tissue. Whole-body cryotherapy, however, is not a treatment for cancer. It involves exposing your entire body to extreme cold temperatures for a short duration, typically 2 to   4 minutes inside cryotherapy chambers. While some propose benefits for various conditions, whole-body cryotherapy has not been approved by the FDA for treating any medical condition, including cancer.

6. Reducing Anxiety and Depression

Some studies suggest that whole-body cryotherapy may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The theory is that exposure to extreme cold triggers the body's "fight-or-flight" response, leading to increased circulation and the release of endorphins, natural mood-elevating chemicals in the brain. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine whether whole-body cryotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for mental health conditions.

7. Improving Symptoms of Eczema

Early research suggests that cryotherapy may improve symptoms of eczema, a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed, and irritated skin. Localized cryotherapy may help reduce inflammation and itching in the affected area. More studies are needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of cryotherapy for eczema and whether it can be a viable treatment option alongside traditional medications.

8. Treating Migraine Headaches

Localized cryotherapy applied to the neck area may provide temporary relief from migraine headaches by numbing nerves and reducing inflammation. The cold temperature can help constrict blood vessels and decrease blood flow, potentially easing the throbbing pain associated with migraines. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness compared to other established migraine treatments.

cryotherapy

What should I expect during cryotherapy?

Your experience will depend on whether you're undergoing localized cryotherapy or whole-body cryotherapy (WBC). Here's a breakdown for each:

Localized Cryotherapy:

Whole-Body Cryotherapy (WBC):

Cold Water Immersion:

What should I expect after cryotherapy?

After cryotherapy, your experience can vary depending on the type used and the treated area. Here's a general idea:

Localized Cryotherapy:

Whole-Body Cryotherapy (WBC):

Cold Water Immersion:

General Tips:

Important Note:

Recovery and Outlook

The recovery experience after cryotherapy depends on the type used (localized or whole-body) and the treated area. Here's a breakdown:

Localized Cryotherapy:

Whole-Body Cryotherapy (WBC):

Cold Water Immersion:

Choose The Right Spinal Clinic for Cryotherapy Treatment

Cryotherapy offers a range of potential benefits for physical and mental well-being. However, navigating the world of cryotherapy can be confusing. Here at The Right Spinal Clinic, we take pride in offering a safe and effective cryotherapy experience tailored to your individual needs.

Our team of experienced professionals can help you determine if cryotherapy is right for you and develop a personalized treatment plan to target your specific concerns. Whether you're an athlete seeking to optimize recovery or someone looking to manage chronic pain or inflammation, we can guide you through the process.

Ready to experience the potential benefits of cryotherapy?

Contact The Right Spinal Clinic today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our cryotherapy services. Call us at (813) 392 2164 or visit our website to book your appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve your wellness goals!

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Skin & Anti-Aging Benefits Of Cryotherapy

Skin & Anti-Aging Benefits Of Cryotherapy

For years, cryotherapy has been recommended by many health experts and physicians in Tampa Bay. This innovative cryo-treatment is effective in the rapid healing of chronic pain and discomforts. Several studies have also shown it to be effective in the treatment of various diseases and as a first-aid treatment for injured persons.  But the benefits of cryotherapy do not end here!  In this video, we will talk about why you should add cryotherapy to your beauty regimen. Stay tuned!

 

Skin Rejuvenation & Wrinkle Reduction 

Whole body cryotherapy is an effective skincare treatment that counteracts the aging process by increasing collagen production. It helps shrink pores and smooth out wrinkles for a more youthful look.

 

Cryotherapy’s skin vitalization and anti-aging benefits include the following:

 

  • Clears the skin
  • Enhances collagen production
  • Flushes out toxins
  • Regenerates Cells
  • Reduces Cellulite
  • Improves Inflammation

 

Cryotherapy as a Skin Treatment 

Full body cryotherapy is all about reducing inflammation and boosting collagen production, both of which can help treat various skin conditions. Regular cryo sessions can also help you with:

 

  • Relief from acne, rosacea and dermatitis
  • Lightening of dark spots and other skin blemishes
  • Removal of wrinkles and fine lines
  • Improvements to immune system, hair, skin, and nail health
  • Reduction of subcutaneous skin toxins

Are you ready for the coolest health and beauty regimen? Visit The Right Spinal Clinic today! Call us now at (813) 582 7000 to book an appointment! We also accept walk-ins with NO WAITING TIME!

What to Expect During Your Cryotherapy Session

So, you have finally decided to get a Tampa cryotherapy treatment. Congratulations on choosing The Right Spinal Clinic’s cryo session! Our whole body cryotherapy session can help you stay on track with your health, beauty, and fitness goals.

 

This blog will help you understand how our cryotherapy treatment works. We will also briefly discuss the health benefits of cryo. Read on.

 

Benefits of Whole Body Cryotherapy 

Cryotherapy provides several health benefits. Here are some of them:

 

Alleviate Pain & Accelerate Muscle Healing 

Several studies reveal that cryotherapy can ease muscle pain and accelerate recovery from work or sports-related injuries. Health experts also recommend cryo for patients who suffer from arthritic pain.

 

Support Weight Loss Programs 

Cryotherapy sessions can help support your weight loss program. Since cryo can alleviate muscle pain and boost recovery, it can help you with your workout and other physical activities. Spending 2 minutes in a cryo-chamber may also help you burn up to 500 calories!

 

Improve Symptoms Of Eczema 

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It can cause rough and intense patches of dry skin. In research conducted in 2008, study participants with eczema stopped taking medications and then took cryo sessions. The majority of the participants said they experienced some improvements in their symptoms after the session.

 

Other benefits you can get from cryotherapy:

  • Reduces muscle soreness
  • Alleviates pain
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Boosts energy and athletic performance
  • Promotes muscle strength
  • Improves joint function
  • Faster injury recovery time
  • Boosts immune system
  • Rejuvenates body

 

Disorders or health conditions that can be treated by cryotherapy: 

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Muscle pain
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic body pain
  • Ankylosing Spondylitis
  • Tissue inflammation
  • Immune system improvement

 

The Right Spinal Clinic’s Whole Body Cryotherapy In Tampa Bay, Florida

Here’s what to expect from our whole body cryotherapy session:

  • Health Evaluation. Before the session, our physician needs to conduct a thorough assessment to ensure you are fit and healthy to take a cryo session.
  • Dedicated Health Technician. Our qualified and experienced health technicians will be with you throughout the session. They will also give you some pointers for safe and successful cryotherapy.
  • Advanced Technology. The Right Spinal Clinic has invested in the most advanced cryo-chamber so our patients/clients can enjoy their cryotherapy experience.
  • Privacy. We have exclusive changing rooms so you can have your privacy. We will also provide clean and sanitized robes.

How Do You Feel About Cryotherapy?

These are just some of the things you should know about our whole body cryotherapy services. If you have other questions, please call us at (813) 582 7000.

GIVE US A CALL

10 Wonderful Benefits of Cryotherapy

Thanks to technological advancements, it is now easier and safer to achieve your health and fitness goals. Cryotherapy is one of the most popular health innovations today. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the benefits of cryotherapy. Read on.

What is cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy or cold therapy is a treatment that exposes your body to extremely cold temperatures for a very brief time. Whole-body cryotherapy sessions usually take 2 to 3 minutes.

Another type of cryotherapy is local cryotherapy, which can target specific body areas. This treatment can be administered through coolant sprays, ice massage, ice baths and ice packs.

The Right Spinal Clinic provides whole-body cryotherapy sessions. We have one of the most advanced whole-body cryo-chambers in Tampa Bay. Our skilled physicians and cryo-tech experts will guide you throughout your sessions. You can schedule your appointment today to try this innovative treatment and begin experiencing its many benefits.

Benefits of Cryotherapy

Several studies have shown the effectiveness of cryotherapy. Here are some of the benefits of cryotherapy:

1. Helps Treat Arthritis

Patients suffering from rheumatic arthritis report:

  • Improved general well-being
  • Pain relief from swollen and inflamed joints
  • Improved mobility
  • 40 percent of patients also report that they have reduced use of painkillers

2. Helps Accelerate & Manage Post-Op Stress

Spending two minutes in a cryo-chamber triggers your body’s natural healing process by replenishing the bloodstream and providing oxygen, enzymes, and nutrients.

Other benefits of postoperative whole-body cryotherapy sessions:

  • Reduce or alleviate pain from the operation
  • Help treat inflammation from surgical trauma
  • Boost immune system
  • Accelerate the healing process
  • Help manage post-surgery anxiety and depression

3. Promotes Fast Recovery After Exercise

Athletes were among the earliest believers in cryo treatment. Lebron James, Steph Curry, Floyd Mayweather and Usain Bolt are just some of the professional athletes who undergo cryotherapy sessions. According to them, spending two minutes in a cryo-chamber can help them recover from body pain and fatigue. Cry-therapy also helps athletes to:

  • Reduce or alleviate pain from muscle soreness
  • Speed muscle recovery after strenuous exercise
  • Repair cell damage after exercise
  • Improve blood circulation
  • Increase metabolism rate

4. Alleviates Back Pain

Many people who suffer from chronic back pain experience great results after a few whole-body cryo sessions. Here is how cryotherapy can help with back pain:

  • Exposure to extreme cold temperatures for two minutes is enough to reduce nerve and muscle pain.
  • Repeated cryotherapy sessions can boost the presence of anti-inflammatory proteins
  • Cryotherapy restricts blood flow to the trauma area, reducing pain and discomfort due to inflammation.

5. Delays Aging

Many people today include cryotherapy sessions as part of their beauty regime. Cryotherapy provides a rejuvenating impact on loose and mature skin. Here are some ways regular whole-body cryotherapy sessions can benefit your beauty and anti-aging routine:

  • Boost collagen production
  • Detoxify skin
  • Replenish natural and essential skin nutrients and minerals
  • Promote cell regeneration
  • Reduce fat deposits

6. Eases Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Nearly four million people in the United States suffer from fibromyalgia. According to health experts, this disease is usually linked to rheumatoid arthritis, infectious diseases, obesity, lupus, physical or emotional trauma, and hormonal changes.

Although fibromyalgia is not fatal, it could significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Cryotherapy can help ease symptoms of this condition by reducing inflammation, calming anxiety, and restoring the mind-body balance.

7. Improves Sleep Cycle

Many people who suffer from primary sleep disorders or insomnia have experienced improved sleep cycles after taking regular cryo sessions. Whole-body cryotherapy can help insomniacs by:

  • Improving muscular metabolism
  • Inducing psychological calmness
  • Reducing body pain discomfort that can cause sleep disruption

Keep in mind that results may vary from person-to-person, but improvements have been observed after a week of daily whole-body cryotherapy sessions in Tampa.

8. Helps Treat Migraine

50 percent of Americans who suffer from migraine episodes are forced to take sick leaves.

Cold therapies such as ice packs, cold compresses, and ice baths have been popular treatments for migraines for over 150 years. It is not hard to see why whole-body cryotherapy can help reduce or alleviate migraine symptoms.

9. Helps Treat Multiple Sclerosis

Regular cryotherapy sessions have shown great results for people who suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS).

  • Pain management
  • Reduce oxidative stress
  • Reduce fatigue levels
  • Improve endurance

10. Helps Manage Stress, Anxiety and Depression

Exposure to extreme cold temperature in a cryo-chamber can cause positive physiological hormonal responses, such as adrenaline, noradrenaline and endorphins. It can also help reduce cortisol (stress-inducing hormone) levels in the system.

  • Improve sleeping patterns
  • Mood elevation
  • Memory enhancement
  • Boost energy
These are just some of the many benefits of regular whole-body cryotherapy sessions. Call us now and book your cryo session!

Innovative Beauty, Health & Wellness: Whole Body Cryotherapy

Once again, The Right Spinal Clinic goes above and beyond to provide you with the best programs for your health and wellness.

Introducing our innovative Whole Body Cryotherapy…

We invest in the most advanced tools and equipment to provide the best possible results to all our clients and patients.

With the combined efforts of our qualified physicians and highly-skilled tech experts, we deliver safe and successful cryotherapy sessions.

Benefits of Cryotherapy

Also known as cryogenic therapy, cryotherapy provides you with numerous benefits. This innovative therapy can:

  • Relieve pain
  • Promote muscle healing
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Delay aging
  • Improve weight loss
  • Enhance athletic performance and
  • Boost your immune system
Let your body heal faster! Call us now and schedule your cryotherapy session.