What is Cryotherapy & Why It Helps Therapeutically

Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for short periods of time. This can be done through localized applications (like ice packs or cold compresses), ice baths, or whole-body cryotherapy chambers, where temperatures can drop to between -200°F to -220°F for 2–3 minutes.

Therapeutically, cryotherapy works by reducing inflammation, mitigating nerve irritation, and decreasing blood flow to targeted areas, which helps control swelling and pain. These effects make cryotherapy a widely used treatment. Contact our Whitefish MT chiropractic clinic today to learn more.

Benefits For The Nervous System In Whitefish MT

Cryotherapy has several notable effects on the nervous system:

• Pain Reduction: Cold temperatures slow down nerve conduction, which can help reduce the transmission of pain signals. This results in temporary pain relief, making it especially useful for conditions like chronic pain, nerve irritation, or post-operative discomfort. In cases of nerve inflammation or hyperactivity, cryotherapy can help calm overactive nerves, improving comfort and function in affected areas.
• Mood and Mental Health: Whole-body cryotherapy has been shown to trigger the release of endorphins, dopamine, and other feel-good neurotransmitters. This may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression while boosting overall mental well-being.

Cryotherapy is a cornerstone in the treatment of both acute and chronic injuries. It is particularly effective in the initial stages of injury management and ongoing recovery:

• Reduces Inflammation and Swelling: By constricting blood vessels (vasoconstriction), cryotherapy limits fluid buildup in injured tissues, which helps reduce swelling and bruising.
• Speeds Up Healing: Motivating proper blood flow to the area if injury helps tissue damage by preserving healthy cells and assisting injured cells.
• Prevents Secondary Injury: Lowering the temperature of the tissues can help prevent further damage in the early stages post-injury by slowing down cellular processes.
• Pain Management Without Drugs: For individuals avoiding medication or dealing with drug sensitivities, cryotherapy offers a non-invasive, drug-free pain relief option