Whole-Body Cryotherapy
Recover faster. Feel better. Support your body's natural recovery process.
Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) is an advanced recovery treatment that briefly exposes the body to extremely cold temperatures in a controlled environment. Sessions typically last only two to three minutes, making cryotherapy a quick, non-invasive option for individuals looking to support recovery, reduce soreness, and improve overall well-being. Two to three minutes in. Refreshed on the way out.
At Acadiana Pain & Performance Rehab, we use a whole-body cryotherapy chamber as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery program. Whether you're recovering from an injury, training for competition, or managing persistent musculoskeletal discomfort, cryotherapy may help you recover more comfortably between treatments.
What Is Whole-Body Cryotherapy?
Whole-body cryotherapy involves standing inside a specialized chamber where the body is exposed to very cold air for a short period of time under the supervision of trained professionals.
The cold stimulates normal physiological responses, including temporary narrowing of blood vessels, activation of the nervous system, and the release of natural chemicals involved in regulating pain and recovery. After the session, circulation returns to normal as the body gradually warms.
Cryotherapy is designed to complement—not replace—exercise, rehabilitation, and other evidence-based treatments.
Potential Benefits
Research suggests whole-body cryotherapy may help:
- Reduce temporary muscle soreness after exercise
- Decrease pain associated with certain musculoskeletal conditions
- Support recovery following intense physical activity
- Improve feelings of physical recovery and readiness for exercise
- Enhance short-term mobility in some individuals
- Promote an overall sense of well-being
Individual responses vary, and cryotherapy is most effective when incorporated into a personalized treatment plan.
Who May Benefit?
Whole-body cryotherapy may be appropriate for:
- Athletes recovering after training or competition
- Individuals with exercise-related muscle soreness
- Patients participating in rehabilitation programs
- Active adults managing joint or muscle discomfort
- Individuals seeking an additional recovery strategy between workouts
During your evaluation, we'll determine whether cryotherapy is appropriate based on your health history and goals.
What Should I Expect?
A typical cryotherapy session lasts approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Before treatment, you'll receive instructions regarding appropriate clothing and protective equipment.
During the session:
- You'll stand comfortably inside the cryotherapy chamber.
- Extremely cold air circulates around your body while you're continuously monitored.
- Many patients describe the sensation as intensely cold but well tolerated due to the brief treatment time.
Afterward, your body naturally begins to warm, and many people report feeling refreshed and energized.
Is Cryotherapy Safe?
Whole-body cryotherapy is generally considered safe for appropriately selected individuals when performed under professional supervision.
However, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Certain cardiovascular conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, cold sensitivity disorders, pregnancy, and some other medical conditions may prevent safe participation. We'll review your medical history before recommending treatment.
Research & Evidence
Research on whole-body cryotherapy continues to grow.
- Systematic reviews suggest whole-body cryotherapy may reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) following intense exercise and improve perceived recovery in athletes.
- Some studies have demonstrated short-term reductions in pain and improvements in physical function for certain musculoskeletal conditions, although additional high-quality research is still needed.
- Current evidence supports cryotherapy as an adjunct to comprehensive rehabilitation rather than a stand-alone treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold does the chamber get?
Whole-body cryotherapy chambers operate at extremely cold temperatures for a very short period—typically between two and three minutes—which allows the treatment to be brief while remaining well tolerated for appropriately screened individuals.
Does cryotherapy hurt?
Most people describe the experience as intensely cold but manageable. Because sessions are so short, discomfort is generally temporary.
How often should I use cryotherapy?
The ideal frequency depends on your goals. Athletes may benefit from sessions around periods of intense training, while others may use cryotherapy as part of an ongoing rehabilitation program. We'll recommend a schedule based on your individual needs.
Can cryotherapy replace physical therapy?
No. Cryotherapy is designed to complement rehabilitation by supporting recovery and temporary pain relief. It is most effective when combined with evidence-based treatments such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and individualized rehabilitation.
References
- Costello JT, Baker PRA, Minett GM, et al. Whole-Body Cryotherapy (Extreme Cold Air Exposure) for Preventing and Treating Muscle Soreness After Exercise.
- Rose C, Edwards KM, Siegler J, et al. Whole-Body Cryotherapy as a Recovery Technique After Exercise: A Systematic Review.
- American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription.
Feel the Difference for Yourself
Whether you're training for your next competition, recovering from an injury, or looking for additional support during rehabilitation, whole-body cryotherapy may be a valuable addition to your recovery plan.
Our team will determine whether cryotherapy is appropriate for your goals and integrate it into a personalized, evidence-based treatment program designed to help you recover, move, and perform at your best.
Contact Acadiana Pain & Performance Rehab to learn whether whole-body cryotherapy is right for you.
Try Cryotherapy for Yourself