Whole body cryotherapy is based on neuroreflexive as well as neurohumoral processes and effects on central control functions that are induced by the strong, short-term cold stimulus that is applied over almost the entire body surface.

Only in this way can it be explained that it has clear therapeutic and stimulating effects not only in the area where it penetrates, but also at deeper-lying tissue that remains inaccessible even to a three-minute application of extreme cold.

Whole body cryotherapy, which literally means “cold therapy”, is predominantly pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory. It can significantly reduce inflammation and swelling that causes pain by reducing blood flow to a particular area, especially around a specific area like a joint or a tendon. It can also temporarily reduce nerve activity, which again can also relieve pain.

As a treatment, whole body cryotherapy is a great alternative to prescription painkillers which so often have many negative side effects. However, needless to say it is not the only alternative. Another natural option for those seeking pain relief is cannabis-related products, like CBD from websites such as GoldBee.com, which can also help with reducing pain. It works by affecting activity in the body’s endocannabinoid receptors, stopping the body’s signals for pain and reducing inflammation in the process.

However, that is not the only use of cryotherapy. It also influences tensile state (neural activation), circulation and metabolism within the skeletal musculature. It has a regulating effect on a disrupted brain activity and exerts a performance-enhancing effect that with regards to cardiovascular function, energy budget and also muscular metabolism shall be explained in detail in a separate chapter of the book, i.e. whole body cold application in athletic sports.

1. Pain relief, pain elimination
2. Inflammation inhibition / immunomodulation
3. Effect on skeletal musculature (regulation of tone, improvement in circulation and metabolism, modification of neural activation)
4. Functional improvement of the joints
5. Regulation of the central activity level, psycho-physical performance enhancement, improvement of well being
6. Economization in the cardiovascular system and the energy budget