Is it safe?
Yes. Single person direct injection Cryosaunas and multi-person Walk-in Cryochambers have been used for the past 30+ years without any severe adverse reaction ever recorded. Problems have only arisen if a client steps into the machine with wet clothing, especially wet socks, as water will freeze immediately at the temperature. The nitrogen being used to cool the single-person cryosauna is the same nitrogen that makes up 78% of the air we breathe. In the single person chamber, the operator raises the platform while the client stands up so their head is above the heavier nitrogen vapors and can breathes normal room-air. In a recent safety evaluation, a pulse oximeter was used to record blood oxygen saturation in more than 30 clients using the single person chamber and found no drop in blood oxygen saturation throughout the treatment. For safety, chambers are also equipped with an oxygen monitor at the level of the mouth, which will shut off the nitrogen supply should the oxygen concentration drop by 0.5%. In order to protect the more temperature sensitive tissues such as hands and feet, clients wear dry socks, slippers, and gloves, which we provide. In the walk-in chambers, clients also have to wear a face-mask to protect the nose and prevent the inhalation of cold air, as well as earmuffs or a hat covering the ears.
Is it comfortable?
Before entering the Cryosauna, clients are required to dress in protective clothing composed of cotton socks, cotton underwear (for men), and gloves. If you are using the walk-in chamber, you will also be provided with a cotton band to cover your ears and a disposable mask to cover your mouth. A session is of short duration (2-3 minutes), and the cold is 'dry', so it is very tolerable. Towards the end of the session, you may get a 'pins and needles' sensation, which disappears immediately after the treatment.
How do I feel afterwards?
During each session the body releases endorphins, which are hormones that make you feel good and energetic. The mood-enhancing effects from each session can last for days.
How many sessions should I do?
Depending on the condition of treatment, you should initially take 5–10 treatments in close succession (separated by 1-2 days; e.g. 3x/week) to maximize your results. After that you can take fewer treatment spaced further apart to maintain and improve on your results (e.g. once every week or two weeks).
Can I catch a cold from it?
No. The immediate cold impact of the cryosession will raise the internal body temperature for a short period of time. The stimulation of the immune system can help decrease the severity and frequency of future colds.
Can I do it if I am claustrophobic?
Yes, you may. The Cryosauna door is held by a magnet and never locked so you may step out at any time. The Cryosauna is open at the top and your head is raised above the level of the upper rim of the cabin. The doors of the Walk-in Cryochamber are also never locked and clients may enter and exit at their own discretion. Clients who suffer from claustrophobia report that they are comfortable in both devices.
What are the risks?
Whole body Cryothherapy is very well tolerated and has minimal risks. Fluctuations in blood pressure during the procedure by up to 10 points systolically (this effect reverses after the end of the treatment, as peripheral circulation returns to normal), allergic reaction to extreme cold (rare), claustrophobia, redness, and skin burns (only if exposed to the low temperatures longer than recommended).
Who should not use cryotherapy?
The following conditions are contraindications to whole body cryotherapy: Pregnancy, severe Hypertension (BP>160/100), acute or recent myocardial infarction, unstable angina pectoris, arrhythmia, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, cardiac pacemaker, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, venous thrombosis, acute or recent cerebrovascular accident, uncontrolled seizures, Raynaud’s Syndrome, fever, tumor disease, symptomatic lung disorders, bleeding disorders, severe anemia, infection, claustrophobia, cold allergy, age less than 18 years (parental consent needed), acute kidney and urinary tract diseases.
Do I have to take a shower before or after?
No, you don't. This procedure is absolutely dry and does not make your skin wet.