What is cryotherapy, and how does it work for skin and pain treatment?

Question

I recently heard about cryotherapy, and I was surprised to learn that it’s used for both skin conditions and pain relief. I don’t fully understand how it works or why freezing temperatures can help the body heal.

What exactly is cryotherapy, and how does it benefit the body? I read that it’s used for freezing warts and skin growths, but it’s also used for muscle recovery and joint pain—how does that work? Also, does cryotherapy have different types, like localized treatment and whole-body sessions?

I also want to know if cryotherapy is safe. Does exposing the body to extreme cold have risks, and who should avoid it? Also, are there natural or Ayurvedic alternatives that work similarly to cryotherapy without using freezing temperatures?

If anyone has tried cryotherapy, what was your experience? Did it help with pain, skin issues, or muscle recovery, and were there any side effects?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extreme cold to promote healing and pain relief. It works by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which helps muscles recover and reduces joint pain. It’s commonly used for skin conditions like warts or growths, as freezing can destroy abnormal cells. Cryotherapy can be localized, targeting specific areas, or involve whole-body exposure to cold, often in a chamber or with ice baths. The cold stimulates the body’s healing processes, increasing blood flow once the cold exposure ends. While generally safe for healthy individuals, it’s not recommended for people with certain conditions like Raynaud’s disease or heart problems, as it can stress the body. Natural Ayurvedic alternatives may include herbal treatments like turmeric or ginger for inflammation, as well as warm oil massages (abhyanga) to improve circulation and relieve pain without using extreme temperatures. If you've tried cryotherapy, your experience may vary—many people find it helpful for pain relief and recovery, but some may experience discomfort or skin irritation.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

What is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for therapeutic purposes.
It’s used for:
Freezing warts or skin growths (localized cryotherapy).
Muscle recovery and joint pain relief (whole-body cryotherapy).
How It Works:
Cold temperatures constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
It also stimulates endorphins, which may help with pain relief and mood enhancement.
Types of Cryotherapy:
Localized Cryotherapy: Targets specific areas (e.g., skin, muscles, or joints).
Whole-Body Cryotherapy (WBC): Enters a chamber at -110°C to -140°C for 2-4 minutes.
Safety and Risks:
Risks: Frostbite, skin irritation, and dizziness if done incorrectly.
Avoid cryotherapy if pregnant, have heart conditions, or have poor circulation.
Natural Alternatives:
Ice baths or cold compresses can offer similar inflammation relief.
Ayurvedic treatments (e.g., turmeric for inflammation) may help without cold exposure.

What is cryotherapy, and how does it work for skin and pain treatment? - #14699

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions