Cryotherapy is a treatment technique that entails using extreme cold for a specific period. The cold is used to treat or remove abnormal skin tissue. Cryotherapy is also commonly referred to as cryoablation when the technique removes dead or abnormal skin tissue.
Types of Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy can be classified into either whole body cryotherapy or localized cryotherapy. Whole-body cryotherapy involves using a special machine that freezes the whole body. Localized cryotherapy is used on specific areas such as the face, buttocks, and genitalia. For localized cryotherapy, ice packs are used to freeze tissue. The ice packs are placed on the affected area for a set period. The cold treatment is then repeated until the skin turns red and spongy.
The Procedure
Whole-body cryotherapy may also be referred to as cryoablation or cryosurgery. This procedure involves freezing a part of a person’s body (usually the face or hands) using liquid nitrogen gas. Liquid nitrogen gas is then pumped into a chamber surrounding the part that needs to be frozen, causing it to reach temperatures of -196 Celsius for 30 seconds at a time. This process is repeated until all abnormal tissue has been removed and healthy tissue has been produced. However, this treatment can only be done by an expert surgeon or doctor who has received special training.
Uses of Cryotherapy
1. Cryotherapy in Skin Conditions
Cryotherapy can help to reduce swelling and pain. It is also used to help with acne and dermatitis. Cryotherapy is a safe treatment option for several skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, and plantar warts. It also treats many other medical conditions, including burns, frostbite, sunburns, and cuts. Cryotherapy may also reduce scarring after surgery or after plastic surgery.
2. Cryotherapy in the Cosmetic Industry
Cryotherapy can be used as a method of cosmetic enhancement by inducing the formation of collagen fibers in the skin that are stronger than those made by normal collagen formation. This process is known as cryofacialsis. It has been found that this type of treatment can restore the appearance of skin that has been damaged by aging or severe burns without the need for invasive procedures such as surgery or grafting.
3. Cryotherapy in the Treatment of Malignancies
Cryotherapy has been used to treat cancers since the mid-20th century. It is a very effective means of treating a wide range of cancers, especially those that have spread to other parts of the body. The process involves giving patients a series of cold treatments for several months or even years, which are extremely effective in helping to kill cancer cells and prevent their spread.
4. Cryotherapy in the Treatment of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that can affect many different people over time. It is characterized by low bone density and weak bones prone to fractures. Many medical professionals recommend cryotherapy to help maintain bone density and strengthen bones against fractures. This treatment has also been shown to help prevent bone loss, leading to osteopenia (a condition characterized by low bone density) and osteoporosis (a condition characterized by high bone loss).
5. Cryotherapy in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that can affect many different people over time. It is characterized by painful inflammation of the joints and surrounding areas and a loss of bone density. Many medical professionals recommend cryotherapy as one way to help with this condition. It helps reduce joint pain and swelling without causing any harmful side effects.
The Cons of Cryotherapy
The main disadvantage of cryotherapy is that it can be painful for the patient. This is a result of the cold temperature of the treatment and the fact that tissues are being frozen. The pain is usually temporary and only occurs after treatment ends, though some patients may experience mild pain during the first few minutes of cryotherapy. Another disadvantage of cryotherapy is that it can cause minor skin reactions in some patients. These reactions are usually mild to moderate and occur immediately after treatment, though they can also occur up to five days later.
Cryotherapy’s Side Effects
Cryotherapy’s side effects are generally minor and include severe pain, numbness, redness, or tingling sensations in the skin or other body areas. Other side effects are nausea or vomiting in cases where patients have been exposed to very cold temperatures for long periods. Additionally, cryotherapy is known to cause headache, fatigue (due to intense muscle contractions), dizziness, and fainting when blood pressure drops too low. Conclusively, the risk of side effects after cryotherapy is low and may outweigh the benefits. For more information on cryotherapy, contact us on 205-352-9141.