Cryotherapy Shellharbour

Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) is a treatment that cools the skin surface using extremely low temperatures through the use of liquid nitrogen.  Developed in 1978 in Japan as an aid in the treatment of acute pain and inflammation, it has since been further developed and studied globally.  For more than 40 years, WBC has been recognised as an excellent aid in recovery, well-being, forms of arthritis and inflammation.

The CryoSauna releases liquid nitrogen vapour ranging between -120˚C to -160˚C, which envelops the client’s body for 0.5 – 3 min.

The process is completely tolerable, yet the body interprets the extreme cold as a threat to its well being. The temperature receptors in the skin send this information to the brain (hypothalamus area), which responds with an attempt to restore balance.

The first step the body takes to protect its core temperature is to redirect blood from superficial vessels and capillaries in the skin towards deeper structures. This causes blood to flow from the periphery towards the central core.

After completion of the treatment, the body reheats itself through vasodilation. The vessels and capillaries expand up to four (4) times their normal diameter. This causes a significant increase in blood flow to the skin and extremities, enriching cells with oxygen and enzymes to a much greater degree than under normal balanced conditions.

Β-endorphins, which act as the body’s natural morphine, are released. This has a pain relieving effect throughout the whole body and also creates a sense of euphoria.

The cold exposure drastically reduces the body’s ability to communicate pain signals. After multiple sessions, the body adapts its perception to pain stimuli.

Muscle relaxation leads to relief of muscle spasm.

The body’s white blood cells secrete small proteins (cytokines), which are used in cell signalling and ultimately affect the behaviour of other cells. These proteins can be either pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory. During Whole Body Cryotherapy, pro-inflammatory cytokines are decreased and anti-inflammatory cytokines are increased. This causes a powerful anti-inflammatory response throughout the whole body.

The body’s total anti-oxidative status is increased. The body achieves an improved ability to eliminate free radicals, naturalise toxins and repair cellular damage. This process can lead to a powerful anti-aging effect.

After the operator has pre-cooled the Juka Cryo Sauna, you will be guided into the vertical chamber.  The chamber door will be closed by the operator at which time you can pass your robe or towel over the top opening to the operator.  The operator will then raise the lower standing platform so that you are elevated to the point that your shoulders are aligned to the top opening.

The operator will ask how cold you feel like going on the day and the temperature will be set on the control panel.  Immediately after, the operator will start the cooling process and the chamber will start to fill with nitrogen gas.  It is important not to deliberately inhale these gases.  Whilst not harmful in small doses, large inhalations may cause fainting or passing out.

Each session will last between 2-3 minutes and is monitored by the operator at all times.  During this time, you may dance, sing, laugh, talk to the operator or whatever it takes to distract you from the cold.  Some like to close their eyes and meditate during this time.

At the end of the session, the Cryo Sauna will automatically turn off and the lower platform will lower to its lowest point.  The operator will then pass your towel or robe over the top for you to cover up.  Once confirmed, the operator will then open the door and guide you out towards the change rooms where you can redress.  

It is at this time that you should expect to feel a rush of endorphins and a slight sense of euphoria.  This is normal and a driver for clients to return.  Generally, any muscle soreness that was had prior to the treatment is diminished or gone.  You should note an increase in flexibility.

For the males, you will need to wear underwear for the same reason we wear socks and gloves.  A thin layer does wonders for the protection of the family jewels.

For the ladies, you may enter the Cryo Sauna with only socks and gloves should you choose, but if you’re more comfortable in wearing underwear, by all means do.  One thing to avoid however, is wearing a bra with an under wire.  The wire can cool to the point whereby it may burn the skin.

Socks, gloves, towels and robes are all provided.

The short and long answer is no. You’ll feel invigorated and alive. Go and conquer the world. Expect to sleep exceptionally well for the coming nights following your session.

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition that makes a particular treatment, such as cryotherapy, potentially harmful or unsafe for an individual.

Here are the contraindications for this treatment:

• Absolute
• untreated hypertension
• myocardial infarction (less than 6 months before)
• diseases of the circulatory and respiratory system
• anginal pain in the chest
• pacemaker
• peripheral arterial vascular obstruction
• venous thrombosis
• acute inflammation of the airways
• severe kidney and urinary infections
•  severe anaemia
• cold allergy symptoms
• cancer
• stroke
• bacterial and viral skin infections

Relative

• heart arrhythmia
• heart failure
• condition after heart surgery
• ischemic heart disease
• Raynaud’s disease
• polyneuropathy
• pregnancy (from the 4th month)
• inflammation of blood vessels