As of late here in Columbus there has been much
talk about a new physical therapy treatment known as Cryotherapy. Athletes and
entertainers including Lebron James, Mandi Moore and Jessica Alba all attest to
the benefits of this fairly new therapy. But what is cryotherapy and why is it
receiving seemingly plenty of press here in Columbus and across the
country?
Cryotherapy
is a non-medical treatment that uses extreme cold to produce health
benefits. There are 2 types of cryotherapies available in Columbus
and nationwide; electric cryotherapy and liquid nitrogen cryotherapy. Electric
Cryotherapy uses fresh, oxygenated air to cool the entire body. Liquid
Nitrogen Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen vapors as its cooling method. The
temperature range for both versions of Cryotherapy are between -165 degrees and
-256 degrees Fahrenheit. Since the temperatures are well below freezing, Delille Oxygen Company
recommends that each treatment session not go longer than 3 minutes and should
only be once a day. Cryotherapy sessions can range in price from $40 to $100.
Proponents of regular Cryotherapy treatment claim that it
can help with joint and muscle pain after strenuous workouts or for those
suffering from arthritis and fibromyalgia, aid in weight loss, reduce
inflammation and reduce the effects of anxiety and depression. It is also said
to lower the risk of developing cancer, however there is currently no evidence
that it can treat cancer once it has developed.
The medical community does not seem as keen to jump on the
Cryotherapy band wagon. Recent studies have said Cryotherapy offers no real
evidence of benefits. Meanwhile, the FDA has referred to this treatment
somewhat cynically in calling it a “so-called treatment” and stating that it
“lacks evidence.” Another aspect of this treatment to consider: there are
currently guidelines in place for Cryotherapy treatment centers, but those
guidelines are rarely, if ever, enforced. Also since there is no formal
training certification process, safety standards can vary widely.
Whether or not Cryotherapy treatment is right for you, will
be up to you and your doctor to decide. As with any treatment, you should
consult your doctor and insure that this treatment is safe for you.
To learn more about the gases used in
Cryotherapy treatment please
contact Delille Oxygen Company.