Cryotherapy: What It Is, How It Works, and What the Research Says

When you hear cryotherapy, a treatment that uses extremely cold temperatures to reduce pain and inflammation. Also known as cold therapy, it's used by athletes, people with chronic pain, and even those looking to recover faster after surgery. It’s not just ice packs on a sore knee—it can mean stepping into a chamber colder than -200°F for just a few minutes. The idea is simple: freeze the surface of your skin just enough to trick your body into switching into repair mode.

There are two main types: whole body cryotherapy, where you stand in a cold chamber and your entire body is exposed, and local cryotherapy, where a probe or ice pack targets one area like a sprained ankle or arthritic joint. The first is popular in sports recovery centers, while the second is what most people try at home or in physical therapy clinics. Both aim to reduce swelling, numb pain, and speed up healing by constricting blood vessels and then triggering a rush of oxygen-rich blood when you warm up again.

But does it actually work? Some studies show short-term relief for muscle soreness after intense workouts. Others suggest it helps with arthritis pain and even some skin conditions like psoriasis. But the evidence isn’t strong enough to call it a miracle cure. Many of the claims—like boosting metabolism or curing depression—come from marketing, not science. What’s clear is that for most people, it’s safe if done correctly, but it’s not a replacement for proven treatments like physical therapy or medication.

You’ll find posts here that compare cryotherapy to other recovery methods, explain how to use it safely at home, and break down what real clinical trials actually show about its effects on inflammation, pain, and healing. Some articles look at how it stacks up against ice baths or compression therapy. Others warn about risks—like nerve damage from overuse or frostbite from improper equipment. There’s also info on who should avoid it entirely, like people with circulatory problems or cold allergies.

Whether you’re an athlete trying to bounce back faster, someone with chronic joint pain, or just curious about the latest wellness trend, this collection gives you the facts—not the hype. You’ll learn what cryotherapy can realistically do, what it can’t, and how to decide if it’s worth trying for your situation.