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CRYOTHERAPY | The Physio Fix


The term "cryotherapy" has been derived from the Greek words "cryo" (cold) and "therapeia" (therapy). Simply, the usage of ice, cold packs, or nitrous oxide sprays to reduce inflammation and pain is termed cryotherapy. It is the therapeutic use of low temperatures to treat certain health conditions. 

CONTENTS

  1. How cryotherapy works?
  2. Benefits
  3. Indications
  4. Contraindications
  5. Types of cryotherapy
  6. Safety considerations

HOW CRYOTHERAPY WORKS?

Cryotherapy typically works through the physiological responses that are initiated by the body as a result of exposure to cold. Initially, the blood vessels of the targeted area constrict and the blood flow is reduced to that area. This is termed vasoconstriction. It helps in reducing the inflammation thus, preventing further damage to the injured tissues. The pain is alleviated due to the release of endorphins i.e. body's natural painkillers in response to exposure to extreme cold. After some time, the blood vessels become dilated and the blood flow is increased to the targeted area. This is also termed the Lewis-Hunting phenomenon. This phenomenon states that the body responds to cold exposure through a cycle of alternating vasoconstriction and vasodilation to regulate the blood flow in the treatment area.

BENEFITS

Cryotherapy can be used for the treatment of several health conditions. Some of its uses include:
  • Pain relief
  • Reduction in swelling and inflammation
  • To reduce fever
It can provide relief in case of both acute and chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, and soft tissue injuries including sprain, bursitis, and tendonitis by reducing pain and swelling in the treatment area. Cryotherapy significantly helps to speed up the recovery process of a post-exercise or sports injury. It is also found to be very beneficial in treating benign skin lesions such as warts, moles, actinic keratosis, etc. It is highly effective in removing benign moles that are superficial and non-cancerous. The process includes freezing the mole with liquid nitrogen, extreme cold leads to localized cell damage and eventually cell death. The dead tissue is removed by the body through the natural process of healing. 
In the case of a pinched nerve, cryotherapy may provide temporary relief by alleviating the pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting blood flow along with muscle relaxation. Permanent relief is only possible by identifying and treating the underlying cause of the condition. 

INDICATIONS

Cryotherapy is safe and indicated for the following health conditions:
  • Acute soft tissue injuries
  • Muscle spasms
  • Chronic pain
  • Myofascial trigger points
  • Minor burns
  • Post-operative pain or swelling
  • DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness)
  • Skin conditions such as warts, and precancerous skin lesions.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Cryotherapy may not be recommended under certain conditions such as,
  • Raynaud's disease
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Cryoglobulinemia
  • Cold urticaria
  • Severe asthma
  • Recent heart attack
  • Angina
  • Sensory disorders
  • An open wound or skin infection
  • Frostbite
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

TYPES OF CRYOTHERAPY

There are several techniques used for applying cold to the body. The types of cryotherapy include the following:
  • Localized cryotherapy
  • Whole-body cryotherapy

LOCALIZED CRYOTHERAPY

The application of cold to a specific area of the body refers to localized cryotherapy. This technique is widely used in physical therapy, sports medicine, and pain management. Most commonly, it involves the use of the following methods to treat pain and swelling;
  • Application of an ice pack or cold pack to the affected area.
  • Using a gel-filled pack after cooling it in a refrigerator for about 30 minutes or 1 hour. 
  • Rubbing an ice cube directly on the targeted area.
  • Immersion of an affected body part in cold water (only for a short period).
  • Cold sprays are used to provide a rapid cooling effect. Mostly used in sports settings.

WHOLE BODY CRYOTHERAPY (WBC)

Whole-body cryotherapy is a procedure in which your entire body is exposed to extreme cold for a short period. It is generally performed within a cryotherapy chamber. The temperature of the chamber rapidly drops to extremely cold levels once the patient has entered it. The session usually lasts for 2 to 4 minutes. 
It is essential to follow the instructions of Healthcare Professionals and to wear the protective gear provided by the staff.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

You should consult a Healthcare Professional before undergoing any form of cryotherapy. Follow the instructions of the trained professionals during the sessions. Inform the staff immediately in case you notice any side effects such as frostbite, skin irritation, allergic reactions, etc. 
Generally, cryotherapy is safe and effective for the treatment of many health conditions. 









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