Cryotherapy originated in Japan to treat rheumatoid arthritis and was then taken to the USA as an aid to athletes recovery, it can now be conducted using a small, virtually silent device where liquid nitrogen (or cooled compressed air) rapidly cools down the skins surface using sub zero temperatures to stimulate a number of physiological processes in the body which have been shown to provide the following benefits:
- Reduction of inflammation as well the reabsorption of swelling
- Slows down the transmission of pain by the nerves and works as an analgesic
- Antispasmodic
- Speeds the recovery process
- Helps release restorative of enzymes to reduce scar tissue
- Increases Collagen production (Collagen is the fibre that makes muscle structures more supple and more resilient to the effects ageing and exercise)
- Improve quality of sleep
- Reduce stress
- Strengthen the immune system
- Boost metabolism (subsequently increasing calorific burn)
- Promote the release of endorphins, which can greatly contribute to relief from injuries or other physical discomfort
- Decrease cell permeability also helping the prevention of additional oedema
- Reduced need for excessive medication and its side effects.