FAQ’s

What is Whole Body Cryotherapy?

Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) was first used in Japan in the late 1970’s to treat pain and rheumatoid arthritis. The therapy then became popular in Europe where it’s been used for more than 30 years prior to coming to the US. Studies conducted over the last two decades have established WBC as a powerful treatment for inflammatory disorders and injuries.

WBC is administered in a Cryosauna. It’s a metal chamber open on the top equipped with a door and platform that adjusts to each client’s height. The sauna uses cryogenically cooled air to quickly lower your skin temperature in less than 60 seconds. The body is exposed to temperatures low enough to trigger a systemic anti-inflammatory response.

What are the benefits?

Below are some of the common benefits that clients have experienced:

• Reduces inflammation
• Relieves pain
• Eases muscle soreness
• Enhances training and reduces recovery time so athletic performance is maximized

• Improves autoimmune response
• Relieves joint and muscle pain
• Increases your metabolism
• Heals the endocrine, immune and nervous systems

• Increases energy
• Improves mood
• Elevates overall sense of well-being
• Promotes healthy skin by increased collagen production

How does the Cryosauna work?

The Cryosauna is cooled using liquid nitrogen to expose the body to ultra-low temperatures (-200 to -240 F).  Clients are not in direct contact with the gas.  The client’s skin surface temperature is lowered by 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit over a period of 2-3 minutes. The core body temperature remains unchanged throughout the process, however, it may drop slightly afterwards.

While you are in the Cryosauna, blood is pulled inward to the core, causing dramatic peripheral vasoconstriction. The skin receptors signal the brain to produce positive biological responses without causing any damage to tissue.  The skin reacts to the cold which stimulates neurological receptors that send messages to the brain to trigger the regulatory functions of the body. The brain sends out signals to scan all areas of the body, and is then able to acknowledge any areas that may be in need of repair.

When you exit the chamber, blood is pumped vigorously around the body, which is now filled with higher levels of oxygen andnutrients. The oxygen is able to open up areas of inflammation and send the nutrients in to begin the repair process. This induces adaptive changes correlating with effects of analgesia, reduction of inflammation, accelerated tissue repair, and an improvement in removal of toxins.The cold also triggers the nervous system to release feel- good endorphins.

Is Cryosauna safe and tested?

Yes, it’s been used in Asia and Europe for over 30 years and in the United States for almost 10. A trained operator is always present during your treatment to control the temperature and monitor your comfort and safety.  Please visit our research and latest talk sections for more information.

Is one treatment enough? 

Many clients experience noticeable differences after just one treatment, but optimal results typically occur when 10 sessions are completed within your first 1-3 weeks.

After the initial session, the frequency can vary depending on the individual and the reason for seeking treatment. Dr. Gray and her staff will work with you on a treatment plan to match your goals.

How soon can I expect results?

Many clients feel great after the first treatment because of the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevator.  This lift may last for several hours to several days. Depending on your physical condition, you may feel immediate relief from joint and muscle pain, improved energy, and increased flexibility that will last for several hours or even days. Metabolism can be boosted for up to 48 hours.  Changes in skin texture and reduction in cellulite and weight loss will take longer to see results and may require a series of treatments for maximum results.

How does Cryosauna help oxidative stress?

Treatments in the Cryosauna will help promote the production of anti-oxidants which fight the free radicals and the damage they cause.

Is Whole Body Cryotherapy specifically for athletes?

Absolutely not. Cryosauna is for anybody who would like to reduce inflammation, improve their autoimmune response, feel less pain naturally,have reduced muscle soreness, experience better performance, enhance their mood, improve skin condition, burn calories, or improve well-being. Visit our ____ section for a list of conditions that have responded to WBC.

What do I wear?

Women can be nude (bra optional, but no underwire); men wear their underwear. It’s an option to wear minimal clothing such as bathing suits or undergarments, but the effects are greater if more skin surface is exposed.  We provide a robe, gloves, socks and slippers to protect the extremities.

How long does it take?

One of the biggest advantages of the Cyosauna is its convenience.  Treatments usually take between two and three minutes.

Do I take a shower before or after the Cryosauna?

No, it’s completely dry.

Is it comfortable?

Users don’t report the treatment as painful.  You don’t perceive the cold as extreme because at this temperature the air no longer contains moisture. Many report that the treatment feels invigorating while in the CryoSauna.  It’s been described as “like standing naked in front of a freezer on a hot day.”

Who can’t use Cryosauna?

The following list of conditions are contraindicated to using the Cryoauna:

• Unmanaged or severe Hypertension (BP> 180/100)
• Acute or recent myocardial infarction
• Unstable angina pectoris
• Arrhythmia
• Angina
• Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
• Peripheral arterial occlusive disease
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Pacemaker

• Symptomatic lung disorders
• History of or being treated for cancer
• Bleeding disorders
• Severe anemia
• Acute infections
• Cold intolerance/allergy to cold
• Cold-activated asthma
• Excessive sweating
• Acute or recent cerebrovascular accident

• Uncontrolled seizures
• Raynaud’s Syndrome
• Hypothyroidism
• Fever
• Cryoglobulinemia
• Cryofibriongenemia
• Agammaglobulinemia
• Certain medications (antipsychotic)

Dr. Gray and her staff will review your health history prior to your first treatment.  If you have questions about whether you have any risk, you should first ask your healthcare provider before using a Cryosauna.

Can I use the Cryosauna if I have any plates or joint replacements?

 

Absolutely.  As long as the plate or joint replacement is covered by skin, you can use the Cryosauna.  In fact, many clients have experienced improved recovery times after surgery and less pain in the joint.

If WBC has been around for 30 years, why haven’t I heard of it?

WBC was developed in the 1970’s in Japan and has been around for 30 years in Europe. Europe tends to be ahead of the curve when it comes to health related innovation.

Can I use the Cryosauna if I’m claustrophobic?

Yes. Because it’s open at the top and adjusted to your height, your head and neck are always above the opening. Also, the door is closed – but not locked – so you always have control.

Is there any scientific research on WBC?

Yes, please visit our research section for specific studies as well as the current talk section for recent news.

Is the Cryosauna treatment covered by insurance?

Multiple research studies have been published in medical journals about the effects of whole body cryotherapy, and in many European countries the treatments are covered by medical insurance policies.  In the United States, whole body cryotherapy is considered a non-medical wellness modality.  As such, health insurances do not currently offer reimbursements for the service.

Is nitrogen dangerous for humans?

No, it isn’t. Nitrogen is a non-toxic, natural gas. The air that we breathe is made up of 20% Oxygen, 78% Nitrogen and 2% of other components.