Cryotherapy or cold therapy has gotten a lot of attention in recent years. This type of therapy involves going into a chamber and being exposed to extremely cold temperatures. You may have seen videos of workout enthusiasts and celebrities immersing their bodies into a tub of ice and wondered if this practice actually works. While this may not sound comfortable or enticing, cryotherapy has been proven to help with several health conditions.
If you want to learn how cryotherapy can work for you, here are a few benefits that may convince you to take the plunge, but remember to speak to your doctor before starting.
1. Cold Therapy Helps With Muscle Recovery
When the muscles are injured, the body naturally releases white blood cells which are called leukocytes. These blood cells encourage the blood vessels to contract which lowers the release of leukocytes to stop inflammation. White blood cells are connected to muscle recovery, and dipping the body in cold water assists the cells with blood vessel constriction to reduce pain and swelling after an intense workout.
2. Cryotherapy Boosts Athletic Performance
If you work out regularly or participate in amateur or professional sports, cold therapy can promote quicker muscle recovery. Your muscles will also receive more oxygen if you practice cryotherapy regularly which reduces the strain that physical activity has on the heart. Cold therapy can prevent excess strain on the muscles so you can run faster or maintain agility while exercising or playing sports.
3. Cold Therapy Helps With Endocrine or Hormone Function
Hormones play a huge role in mental and physical health. Cold plunges can impact the way the body responds to cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. Studies have also show that cryotherapy can lead to more fulfilling sleep and getting adequate rest aid in hormone balance. In addition to lowering cortisol, cold therapy can boost testosterone. This hormone helps to strengthen the muscles and reduce depression.
4. Cryotherapy Reduces Inflammation and Increases Antioxidants
While cold therapy can reduce muscle inflammation for athletes, taking a cold plunge regularly is also beneficial for those who suffer from health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals who have a hard time metabolizing lipids may also see improvement after practicing cryotherapy.
When the muscles are stimulated during exercise, the muscles produce oxidants that can damage the structure of the body’s cells. Immediately immersing the body in extremely cold water prompts the body to generate antioxidants which helps the body to fight off free radicals and boosts your immune system.
While cold therapy can be a healthy addition to your workout regimen, there are some important things to keep in mind. If you have high blood pressure, use a pacemaker, or are pregnant, it’s best to avoid cryotherapy until you receive clearance from your doctor. Individuals with anemia and those who have recently had surgery should use caution when considering cold therapy as well. When this type of therapy is administered by a trusted professional, you’ll likely see changes in your body that will improve your flexibility and encourage you to continue enhancing your physical strength.