Want faster recovery, less pain, and better sleep? Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) might be the answer. This therapy involves exposing your body to extremely cold temperatures, offering a range of health benefits backed by science. Here’s a quick look at what WBC can do for you:
- Reduces inflammation and improves recovery for athletes.
- Eases chronic pain from conditions like fibromyalgia.
- Improves mood and mental health through endorphin release.
- Enhances sleep quality and relaxation.
- Boosts your immune system by altering cytokine levels.
- Supports weight management by increasing calorie burn.
- Improves skin health by promoting circulation.
- Sharpens brain function with better blood flow and cognitive improvements.
At The Cryo Hub, the electric cryochamber ensures full-body cooling at –85°C, including the head, for consistent and safe results. Whether you’re looking to recover faster, manage pain, or simply feel better, WBC offers a science-backed approach to wellness.
Key Benefits at a Glance:
| Category | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Inflammation | Reduces markers like CRP and IL-1β |
| Recovery | Speeds up muscle recovery and reduces soreness |
| Pain Management | Eases pain from chronic conditions |
| Mental Health | Improves mood and reduces anxiety |
| Sleep | Enhances sleep quality and slow-wave activity |
| Immune Support | Boosts white blood cell count and cytokine balance |
| Weight Management | Increases calorie burn and targets fat loss |
| Skin Health | Improves circulation and reduces oxidative stress |
| Brain Function | Enhances memory, focus, and cognitive performance |
Keep reading to learn how WBC works and how it can benefit your body and mind.
How WBC Reduces Inflammation
Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) is known for its ability to reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for conditions like fibromyalgia and aiding post-exercise recovery.
Research on Inflammation Markers
Studies show that WBC positively impacts inflammation-related biomarkers. For instance, research published in PLOS One examined endurance-trained males after a simulated trail running race. The findings revealed:
- C-reactive protein (CRP) levels rose by only 123% in the WBC group, compared to a 515% increase in those relying on passive recovery, measured 24 hours post-exercise [2].
- Levels of Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) decreased, while the IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) increased.
Additionally, a meta-analysis of 11 randomised controlled trials demonstrated that WBC reduced IL-1β by 2.08 pg/mL and increased IL-10 by 0.78 pg/mL, both statistically significant changes [4].
These shifts in biomarkers, combined with physiological effects, contribute to WBC’s anti-inflammatory properties.
Blood Flow Response Process
The improvements in inflammation markers are closely tied to the body’s blood flow response during WBC. Using an electric cryochamber, the entire body – including the head – is exposed to uniform cooling. This triggers a precise cycle of vasoconstriction followed by vasodilation. The cooling process helps flush out inflammatory compounds, while cooling the head may activate additional anti-inflammatory pathways via the vagus nerve [1].
Evidence from fibromyalgia research further underscores WBC’s benefits. A study published in August 2024 in the Journal of Personalized Medicine reported that six sessions at –130°C over six weeks significantly reduced inflammation, with noticeable improvements after just three sessions [3].
This controlled cooling approach makes WBC a valuable tool for both athletic recovery and managing chronic inflammation effectively.
Muscle Recovery in Sports
Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) plays a key role in muscle recovery and athletic performance by lowering muscle damage markers and reducing systemic inflammation after intense physical activity. This connection has been backed by recent research in sports science.
Studies on Athletic Performance
A study published in Frontiers in Physiology in 2024 investigated how elite rowers recovered after high-intensity training. The findings revealed that blood lactate levels – a marker of muscle fatigue – dropped significantly after a 3-minute WBC session at –110°C. In the WBC group, lactate levels were reduced to 87.1% of those in the control group immediately after treatment and further decreased to 82.5% within five minutes [7].
Additionally, a meta-analysis showed that WBC alleviated muscle pain in 80% of cases and restored athletic performance in 71% of controlled studies, linking these effects to reduced muscle cell damage and inflammation [5]. Research led by Krüger and colleagues also highlighted the benefits of WBC for acute recovery during intermittent exercise, noting improved tissue oxygenation during both submaximal and maximal running (P < .01) [8].
These findings emphasise the value of consistent cooling methods, a principle central to The Cryo Hub’s recovery protocols.
The Cryo Hub‘s Sports Protocols
Building on these findings, The Cryo Hub offers an electric cryochamber designed for full-body immersion – including the head – ensuring uniform exposure at –85°C. This consistent cooling approach supports faster recovery and overall wellness.
Unlike nitrogen-based systems, The Cryo Hub uses an electric cooling system to maintain an even temperature throughout the chamber. Full-body immersion, including the head, enhances activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays a critical role in recovery [9].
Here are some key benefits of The Cryo Hub’s protocols:
| Recovery Aspect | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Temperature Control | Consistent cooling without temperature fluctuations |
| Head Inclusion | Full-body immersion enhances parasympathetic nervous system activation |
| Movement Freedom | Athletes can adjust their position for better comfort and effectiveness |
| Session Duration | 3–5 minute sessions optimise recovery while burning 500–800 calories [6] |
The chamber’s precision cooling is evident in surface temperature reductions – such as a 9°C drop on the forehead and 11–13°C on limb areas. For athletes aiming to recover faster, The Cryo Hub’s protocols effectively lower blood lactate levels, helping to reduce muscle fatigue and potentially shortening the time needed between training sessions.
Managing Chronic Pain
Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) does more than aid muscle recovery – it also plays a role in managing chronic pain. Studies suggest that WBC can effectively alleviate pain associated with rheumatic and degenerative diseases, offering a non-invasive alternative for pain relief.
Pain Research Results
Research has explored how different chronic pain conditions respond to WBC treatments. For example, a 2021 study by Klemm and colleagues tracked 23 fibromyalgia patients who underwent six WBC sessions at –130°C over six weeks. After just three sessions, participants reported noticeable reductions in pain levels and disease activity [3].
Here’s a snapshot of findings across various conditions:
| Condition | Temperature | Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Ankylosing Spondylitis | –85°C | Marked reduction in pain (VAS) and disease activity (BASDAI) [10] |
| Adhesive Capsulitis | –85°C | Less shoulder pain and improved range of motion [10] |
| Fibromyalgia | –85°C | Pain scores dropped by 3.0 cm on the VAS scale, compared to 0.3 cm in controls [10] |
Additionally, a study on chronic low back pain revealed that WBC sessions significantly reduced both pain intensity and the pain disability index [10]. These findings highlight the potential benefits of WBC, particularly when full-body immersion is included, which we’ll discuss next.
Benefits of Head Cooling
At The Cryo Hub, our state-of-the-art electric cryochamber ensures complete body immersion, including the head, at a consistent –85°C. This full-body approach stimulates the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in regulating pain.
Research indicates that full-body cryostimulation activates several bodily systems – autonomic, endocrine, circulatory, neuromuscular, and immune – helping the body restore balance [11]. This process reduces sympathetic nervous system activity, boosts parasympathetic responses, and lowers inflammation markers.
Clinical data supports these effects. For instance, tympanic temperature decreased by –0.32±0.04°C, while heart rate dropped by 15.2%, both of which point to effective vagus nerve activation and pain relief [12].
For eligible patients, The Cryo Hub recommends regular sessions. However, it’s important to note that cryotherapy isn’t suitable for individuals with Raynaud’s disease or peripheral vascular conditions [10].
Mental Health Effects
Beyond aiding muscle recovery and reducing inflammation, whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) has notable benefits for mental wellbeing. Research highlights how controlled exposure to cold can positively influence mood and mental health through specific biochemical processes.
Endorphin Production
Extreme cold exposure activates the body’s defence mechanisms, leading to a surge in endorphins. These natural chemicals, which function similarly to dopamine, play a key role in reducing both physical and emotional stress [14]. This response stems from the stimulation of the opioid system, triggered by the controlled physiological stress of cold exposure. At The Cryo Hub, our electric cryochamber maintains a consistent temperature of -85°C, ensuring optimal conditions for endorphin release. Studies suggest that this increase in endorphins not only aids pain relief but also enhances mood through the body’s "pain control system" [15]. These biochemical changes form the basis for the mental health improvements observed in clinical settings.
Mental Health Research
The neurochemical effects of WBC have been linked to significant mental health benefits. Research from the Department of Psychiatry at Wrocław Medical University demonstrated remarkable outcomes when WBC was used alongside standard treatments:
| Mental Health Measure | WBC Group Results | Control Group Results |
|---|---|---|
| Depression Score Reduction (≥50%) | 34.6% of participants | 2.9% of participants |
| Anxiety Score Reduction (≥50%) | 46.2% of participants | 0% of participants |
| Recovery Rate (2-week follow-up) | 73.33% of participants | 28% of participants |
A meta-analysis further highlighted WBC’s impact, showing a large effect size (Hedges’ g = 2.95) for reducing depressive symptoms [16]. Improvements were evident within just two weeks, with an adjusted difference of –4.488 points on the HAM-D 17 scale between groups. Notably, these benefits extended to both cognitive-affective (p = 0.00) and somatic aspects (p = 0.028) of depression [13].
At The Cryo Hub, our approach ensures consistent and uniform cold exposure, activating the body’s stress response systems effectively. This not only supports mental health improvements but also complements the physical benefits of WBC.
Sleep Quality Results
Research indicates that whole body cryotherapy (WBC) can significantly enhance sleep quality, especially after evening physical activity.
Sleep Study Findings
A study involving 22 active men revealed that a 3-minute WBC session at –40°C led to noticeable benefits. Participants experienced fewer nocturnal movements, an increase in slow-wave sleep frequency, reduced pain, and overall better sleep quality compared to the control group [17][18]. These findings highlight how session timing can influence the effectiveness of WBC.
Best Times for Treatment
The research emphasises that timing plays a key role in maximising WBC’s benefits. When performed after evening exercise, a 3-minute session has been shown to increase parasympathetic nervous system activity during slow-wave sleep. This not only helps alleviate pain but also supports deeper, more restorative sleep [17][18].
At The Cryo Hub, our advanced electric cryochamber operates at –85°C, offering full-body immersion, including the head. This setup ensures the optimal physiological responses needed to enhance sleep, as demonstrated in research findings.
Immune System Effects
Research highlights that whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) can influence immune function by altering cytokine levels and mobilising leukocytes.
Immune Cell Research
One study involving 15 healthy men explored the impact of WBC conducted at -130°C over ten 3-minute sessions. The results revealed several key changes:
- Increased white blood cell count, particularly lymphocytes and monocytes [19].
- IL-6 levels showed the most significant rise after the tenth session [19].
- Redistribution of B and T cells, suggesting their migration to tissues [20].
In another study, 28 young men underwent WBC. Findings pointed to enhanced expression of antioxidative genes and a reduction in ICAM-1 mRNA levels, indicating a systemic anti-inflammatory response [21].
The Cryo Hub Winter Services
Building on this research, The Cryo Hub offers specialised winter services designed to optimise immune support. At the heart of The Cryo Hub is a cutting-edge electric cryochamber, maintaining a consistent temperature of –85°C. Unlike gas-based systems, this electric chamber ensures even cooling and allows full-body immersion, including the head, to maximise physiological benefits.
Regular sessions during the winter months have been shown to support immune function. Key findings from relevant studies include:
| Immune Marker | Change After Treatment |
|---|---|
| IL‑10 levels | 30% increase after 5 sessions [21] |
| IL‑1α levels | 17% decrease after 10 sessions [21] |
| IL‑6 levels | 10% increase after 10 sessions [21] |
These immune-modulating effects align with clinical research, making The Cryo Hub’s precisely controlled environment a valuable tool for maintaining wellness during colder seasons.
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Weight Management Results
Whole body cryotherapy (WBC) plays a role in weight management by triggering physiological responses that boost energy expenditure and metabolic rate. These changes not only support weight management but also complement the recovery benefits previously discussed.
Calorie Burn Data
One WBC session can burn approximately 1,330 kcal of energy [23]. The Cryo Hub’s electric cryochamber, set at a consistent –85°C, ensures full-body exposure, which helps maximise energy use.
Key metabolic responses observed include:
| Metabolic Response | Change |
|---|---|
| Lipid oxidation | +63% [24] |
| Carbohydrate oxidation | +588% [24] |
| Overall metabolic rate | Up to +350% [25] |
Clinical trials have also highlighted measurable changes in body composition:
- Waist circumference: Reduced by 2.55 cm (3.0%) within 3 hours post-treatment [23]
- Body weight: Decreased by 0.53 kg (0.73%) after three sessions [23]
- BMI: Dropped by 0.42 units (2.1%) after six sessions [23]
Cold-Activated Fat Loss
Cold-induced thermogenesis, often referred to as "cryothermogenesis", further contributes to fat reduction by targeting adipose tissue [23]. This process is distinct from conventional methods as it stimulates brown adipose tissue (BAT), which enhances non-shivering thermogenesis via increased adrenergic activity [22][24].
The Cryo Hub’s approach amplifies these effects through:
- Complete immersion: Uniform cooling across the entire body
- Consistent cooling: Sustained exposure to –85°C
- Targeted protocols: Designed to elicit specific metabolic reactions
A 2018 study involving obese men revealed that 20 cryostimulation sessions led to noticeable reductions in body mass, fat mass, and body fat percentage [22]. Additionally, prolonged exposure to cold may encourage the transformation of white adipose tissue into "brown-like" adipocytes through a process called "browning." These brown adipocytes are more metabolically active, potentially aiding in long-term weight management [23].
Skin Health Changes
Whole-body cryotherapy has been shown to support skin health by improving cellular activity and addressing various skin-related concerns. Studies suggest that exposure to cryogenic temperatures can help maintain skin balance while offering therapeutic relief for certain dermatological conditions.
Research on Skin Conditions
In one study involving 16 participants, researchers observed no changes in skin pH or hydration after 15 cryotherapy sessions. However, there was a notable reduction in sebum levels as early as the second session [26]. Another study highlighted slightly higher hydration levels in individuals who underwent cryotherapy (58%) compared to those who did not (53%) [28]. Additionally, experiments using a temperature-adjustable cryotherapy device on animal models revealed improvements in skin pigmentation. This was linked to reduced expression of proteins such as tyrosinase, MITF, MC1R, and c-kit [27].
Benefits of Uniform Cooling
The Cryo Hub’s electrically-powered cryochamber, operating consistently at -85°C, offers targeted benefits for skin health through even and controlled cooling:
- Improved Circulation
Cryotherapy enhances microcirculation and oxygen delivery to skin cells, promoting a healthier and more radiant appearance [28]. - Reduced Oxidative Stress
Consistent cooling helps maintain anti-inflammatory responses, which can minimise oxidative damage to the skin [28]. - Comprehensive Skin Coverage
Full-body immersion, including exposure of the head, ensures that all skin surfaces benefit from the treatment.
Brain Function Results
Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) isn’t just about physical recovery – it also has a powerful impact on brain function. Recent studies reveal that WBC can boost cognitive abilities, improving memory, mental sharpness, and processing speed after exposure to extremely low temperatures.
Mental Performance Tests
A noteworthy randomised controlled trial from April 2021 explored the cognitive effects of WBC. Conducted at Wroclaw Medical University, the study involved 62 participants with mild cognitive impairment. After just 10 WBC sessions at temperatures ranging from –110°C to –160°C, participants showed marked improvements in immediate recall and orientation [29].
The Cryo Hub offers an electrically powered cryochamber set at a consistent –85°C, ensuring full head immersion for maximum cognitive benefits. Supporting this, another study focused on cognitive inhibition found that male participants improved their performance in Stroop tasks after a single cryotherapy session. Their response times dropped from 602.0 ± 56.4 ms to 562.0 ± 40.2 ms, highlighting faster mental processing and better cognitive control [31].
These cognitive improvements are closely linked to specific physiological changes in the brain, as outlined below.
Brain Response Process
The cognitive gains from WBC stem from several physiological responses that enhance brain function:
| Brain Response | Observed Effect |
|---|---|
| Cerebral Blood Flow | Increased velocity in the middle cerebral artery [30][33] |
| Neurotrophic Factors | Higher BDNF levels, aiding neuronal health [32] |
| Parasympathetic Control | Improved cardiac regulation and cerebral oxygenation [31] |
The Cryo Hub’s comprehensive cooling process further amplifies these effects. Research shows that facial cooling during WBC uniquely boosts cerebral blood flow [30][33]. This increase supports better oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain, promoting sharper mental clarity and enhanced cognitive performance.
Summary of WBC Benefits
Studies show that Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) provides a range of wellness and recovery advantages. The Cryo Hub’s electric cryochamber stands out with its head-inclusive design, ensuring consistent exposure to therapeutic cold at -85°C.
| Benefit Category | Research-Backed Results |
|---|---|
| Inflammation | 60% reduction in TNFα serum concentrations after 5 days in professional athletes [1] |
| Metabolic Health | 34% drop in triglycerides after 10 sessions; notable HDL increase and LDL reduction after 20 sessions [1] |
| Pain Management | Significant improvement in VAS scores for patients with myofascial pain syndrome [10] |
| Recovery | Faster muscle recovery and less delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) with controlled exposure to -85°C |
These results highlight the broad applications of WBC, forming the foundation of the tailored programmes offered at The Cryo Hub.
"WBC is not only a symptomatic physical therapy but rather represents an ‘adaptation therapy’ because of the repeated shock-like cryogenic cold stimulus over the entire body surface that induces reactions in the autonomic, endocrine, circulatory, neuromuscular and immunological systems, resulting in an adaptation that contributes to the restoration of the homeostatic state." [11]
FAQs
How does whole body cryotherapy improve mental health and boost mood?
Whole body cryotherapy (WBC) has been found to offer a boost to mental health and mood by delivering both physical and emotional benefits. Research shows that regular sessions can help ease symptoms of depression, lower stress levels, and promote a sense of well-being. This happens thanks to the release of endorphins – those "feel-good" chemicals – and a reduction in inflammation, both of which play a role in supporting brain function and emotional stability.
WBC has also been linked to better sleep, increased energy, and reduced fatigue. Together, these effects can make a noticeable difference for those dealing with mood disorders or high stress, offering a non-invasive way to feel more balanced and re-energised.
At The Cryo Hub, we use a cutting-edge whole body cryochamber that relies on electricity instead of gas. This ensures even, consistent cooling that includes the head, providing a fully immersive experience. By delivering uniform treatment, our approach helps maximise the mental health benefits of cryotherapy, session after session.
How is The Cryo Hub’s electric cryochamber unique compared to other cryotherapy methods?
The Cryo Hub’s Electric Cryochamber
The Cryo Hub takes cryotherapy to the next level with its cutting-edge electric cryochamber. Unlike nitrogen-based methods, this chamber runs on electricity, ensuring uniform cooling with no temperature inconsistencies. This means you’ll experience a more balanced and effective session every time.
One key feature that makes this chamber special is its full-body immersion, including the head. This design allows you to enjoy the complete range of cryotherapy benefits, leaving no part of the body excluded. Engineered with a focus on safety, comfort, and efficiency, this advanced system has become a top choice for recovery and wellness across the UK.
Can whole body cryotherapy help with chronic pain, and if so, how does it work?
Whole body cryotherapy can be a game-changer for managing chronic pain. By exposing your body to extremely low temperatures, it works to reduce inflammation, which is often a key factor behind ongoing pain. It can also slow down nerve signals in pain fibres, offering relief for conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or persistent back pain.
At The Cryo Hub, we use an advanced electric-powered cryochamber that ensures consistent cooling across your entire body, including your head. This even temperature distribution maximises the therapeutic benefits, providing a safe and effective way to tackle chronic pain.
