Key Takeaways
  • Cryotherapy (whole-body cooling) is expected to relieve fatigue, reduce pain, and improve mood with short-term extreme cold exposure, but evidence is limited.
  • Mechanism involves blood flow improvement through vasoconstriction and subsequent dilation, and endorphin release. However, be wary of exaggerated claims like "-170°C consumes 800kcal in 2 minutes."
  • Safety management is crucial. Pregnant women, individuals with severe heart disease, circulatory problems, or cold hypersensitivity should avoid it.
  • Our experience: We tried it and felt immediate pain relief and improved sleep after the session. It is advisable to continue multiple sessions at a reliable facility.

Introduction: What is the trending Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy, also known as "Whole-Body Cryotherapy," is a treatment method that involves briefly (usually 1-3 minutes) cooling the entire body with extremely cold nitrogen gas. Facilities promoting it for athlete recovery, anti-aging, skin beautification, and pain relief are increasing, drawing attention mainly in America and Europe. We (the geefee team) have also experienced it firsthand, so we will explain its mechanism, effects, and precautions in an easy-to-understand manner, incorporating our experiences.

Mechanism and Expected Effects of Cryotherapy

How does it work?

When the body surface is rapidly cooled for a short period, blood vessels temporarily constrict, then dilate as blood flow recovers. This is thought to lead to improved local blood circulation, increased oxygen supply, reduction of inflammatory substances, and the release of endorphins (substances that induce feelings of happiness). Research in sports medicine and physiology also suggests such mechanisms, but there is still room for debate.

Reported Effects

Reports from clinical settings and users include reduced muscle soreness (shortening of DOMS), pain relief, improved mood, better sleep, and enhanced recovery. However, the magnitude and duration of effects vary across studies, and not all claims are established. In particular, numerical claims like "-170°C for 2 minutes consumes 800kcal" lack strong scientific backing, and excessive expectations should be avoided.

Our Experience Report: First Challenge at a Roppongi Facility

The clinic we visited at the time (CAVALO CLINIC in Roppongi, which later closed in 2018) had us undergo a health check and a brief explanation at the reception, then enter the capsule wearing a gown over our underwear, socks, and gloves. It was essential to keep our faces outside, and the staff meticulously instructed us not to inhale nitrogen gas, which gave us a sense of security. Initially, we felt a gentle chill rising from our thighs. It wasn\\\\\\\\'t the painful cold of a cold bath, but a "clean and pure cold" that continued, and by the end, we felt strangely refreshed. Personally, the pain in my ribs from a fall was alleviated, and I slept soundly that night. Honestly, I had been "scared," but the staff\\\\\\\\\\'s support and the short duration made the experience less burdensome than I expected.

Safety, Precautions, and Tips for Choosing a Facility

Who should not receive it (Main contraindications)

Pregnant women, individuals with severe heart disease, unstable high blood pressure, serious circulatory problems, cold hypersensitivity, or neurological disorders should avoid it. Some facilities require a pre-session medical interview and blood pressure measurement; if you have any concerns, always consult the staff.

Choosing a Facility and Day-of Precautions

Choose a reliable facility and ensure that hygiene management and staff training are thorough. Before the session, remove all metal objects and wear protective gear (socks, gloves) as instructed. Since there is always a risk of nitrogen leakage or machine malfunction, it is safer to choose a facility with proper authorization and a proven track record. Also, as even short exposure to extreme cold can have effects, consider combining it not just with single sessions but with continuous use and other recovery methods (sleep, nutrition, icing, or sauna use).

Cost, Frequency, and Alternatives

The cost per session varies by facility, but typically ranges from several thousand yen to over 10,000 yen. To feel the effects, it is often recommended to continue 1-3 times a week for several weeks, but this varies by individual. If cost or access is an issue, consider alternatives such as ice baths, contrast showers (alternating hot and cold), or cooling after a sauna. These methods also have scientific backing and long-standing practices, with different safety profiles and efficacy.

Summary

Cryotherapy is a new option that allows for quick refreshment, pain relief, and a sense of recovery. When we actually tried it, we felt an immediate refresh and reduction in pain. However, the evidence is not yet complete, and safety management and confirmation of contraindications are crucial. Do not expect excessive effects (e.g., consuming a large amount of calories in a short time), and we recommend continuing at a reliable facility with appropriate frequency. If you are interested, please consult a doctor or specialist staff before starting with a trial session.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.