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
Safety & Contraindications
What We Still Don't Know
Scientific Sources (8)
Comparison of Cryotherapy Performed With Ice or Gel and Superficial Skin Cooling of Older Women: A Randomized, Crossover, Clinical Trial
Fachin KDSM, et al. (2024) — Journal of geriatric physical therapy (2001)
Effects of cryotherapy on the regeneration process and muscular mechanical properties after lacerative injury model
Dos Santos Haupenthal DP, et al. (2021) — Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports
Effectiveness of home-based conventional exercise and cryotherapy on daily living activities in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled clinical trial
MohammedSadiq HA, et al. (2023) — Medicine
Whole-Body Cryotherapy Increases the Activity of Nitric Oxide Synthase in Older Men
Wiecek M, et al. (2021) — Biomolecules
An Evidence-Based Approach for Choosing Post-exercise Recovery Techniques to Reduce Markers of Muscle Damage, Soreness, Fatigue, and Inflammation: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
Dupuy O, et al. (2018) — Frontiers in Physiology
Cryotherapy & Oxaliplatin
NYU Langone Health (2025) — N/A
Efficacy of Cryotherapy in Managing Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Children With Leukemia
Delta University for Science and Technology (2024) — N/A
Acute Effects of Cryotherapy on Muscle Properties
Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa (2024) — N/A