What actually happens to my body during Whole Body Cryotherapy?

Lots of people ask us ‘what does it actually do?' when telling them about our cryochamber.

Many things happen while in the cryochamber and after the treatment.

When you get in the cryochamber your skin begins to cool. This activates the sympathetic nervous system. The blood vessels close to the surface of the skin narrow (vasoconstriction) as a result, causing blood flow to the peripheries or injured/inflamed tissues to slow. The decrease in blood flow slows down metabolic processes in these areas, which is how inflammation and swelling is reduced.

The vasoconstriction in the peripheries means that the body directs blood towards its core organs in order to protect its core temperature. Blood is redirected away from the superficial vessels and capillaries in the skin towards a deeper structure. This stimulates a process in the body known as the ‘baroreflex’ which activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This is the part of the nervous system responsible for rest and recovery.

Cryotherapy also reduces cell death after exercise, and slows down the speed at which our nerves conduct impulses which results in reduced tissue damage and pain sensation.

The blood which is recirculated once you step out of the cryochamber is full with anti-inflammatory proteins, red and white blood cells, enzymes, endorphins, dopamine and serotonin. After the treatment time of 3 minutes, the blood is recirculated back to the extremities of the body and so the enriched blood reaches the rest of the cells in the body. This enables the body to continue with healing, recirculate regulated hormones and induce a feeling of invigoration.