Cryotherapy: Is Extreme Cold Good for You?
Perhaps the word "cryotherapy" makes you think of sci-fi films where rich men and crazy scientists get frozen and then resuscitated a hundred years later, or perhaps you've already heard about cryosaunas – the latest craze among Hollywood celebrities; in any case, chances are that you have actually tried cryotherapy yourself!

Scientists remain unconvinced
Cryosauna enthusiasts report feeling energized and happy after WBC treatments, but it’s not surprising: the combined effect of adrenaline and endorphines is enough to produce the impression. Plus, simply the excitement of being in a chamber freezed to -200 degrees can result in a strong placebo effect. So far, no medical study has produced proof of WBC’s actual effectiveness (more details here). Research has shown that, while people experience subjective reduction of muscle pain, WBC doesn’t fasten the recovery after injuries. Another study has shown that, administered 24 hours after muscle injury, WBC does not significantly reduce muscle pain.Cryotherapy at home
Long before WBC chambers were developed, athletes have used ice baths after training and competitions. The method is simple: dump several bucketfuls of ice into a bathtub, add cold water, put on socks, gloves and a hat, and get in for about 20 minutes. The water should reach up to your waist when you sit in the bath. According to many practitioners, ice baths provide all the same benefits of WBC… almost for free! It is supposed to reduce soreness and swelling, heal and recover your tissues. However, also in this case, research results are inconclusive. On the one hand, some studies indicate it’s more efficient that WBC ; on the other, it may not speed up recovery at all.If you do decide to try an ice bath, remember that risks of hypothermia (and even death) are real; thus, make sure you study the subject further and follow all safety precautions. If, on the other hand, you choose to go for a WBC, keep in mind that it’s not currently regulated by any medical authorities and so far unsupported by research.