FAQs
In 1978 Dr. Toshima Yamaguchi successfully treated rheumatoid arthritis patients for pain and inflammation with extremely cold temperatures and the rest as they say was history - whole body cryotherapy was born. Whole body cryotherapy has changed the course of treatment for a variety of conditions and injuries and ultimately helped speed up the healing and recovery process for all types of soft tissue and musculoskeletal problems.
Lake Norman Cryotherapy
Is nitrogen dangerous to human beings?
No. Nitrogen is a non-toxic gas. The air that we breathe is made up of 16% Oxygen, 1% Hydrogen, 78% Nitrogen and 5% of other components.
Is it comfortable? What do I wear?
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Before entering the Cryosauna, clients are required to dress in protective clothing composed of cotton socks (which are provided) and underwear. You will also be provided with a robe, which you will remove once you are inside the Cryosauna and the door is closed. Only your hands and face are visible to the operator during the procedure, so modesty is preserved at all times. Additionally, it is a dry, gaseous cold. Which means the treatment is tolerable even to those who may consider themselves cold-intolerant.
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How do I feel after I finish a treatment?
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During each session the body releases endorphins, which are hormones that make you feel good and energetic. The buoyant effects from each session last at least six – eight hours and increase with number of treatment sessions. Many clients have expressed that they have the best night of sleep after a Cryo session.
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How many treatments should I take to achieve optimal results?
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Depending on the condition of treatment, you should initially take 5 – 10 treatments in close succession to maximize your results.
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Can I catch a cold because of this procedure?
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No. The immediate cold impact of the Cryosauna 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.
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I’m claustrophobic. May I use whole body cryotherapy?
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Yes, you may. The door is never locked and you may step out at any moment. The chamber is open to the top and your head is raised above the level of the upper rim of the chamber. Additionally, you can see our operator at all times and we try to keep you distracted for your three minute treatment.
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Do I have to take a shower before and/or after the procedure?
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No, you don’t. This procedure is absolutely dry and does not make your skin wet. We have many clients who pop over during a lunch break or on their way to work!
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Is there anything I should avoid following a cryotherapy treatment?
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Yes. Do not enter a hot sauna or Jacuzzi for at least six hours. You should also minimize alcohol consumption for several hours following treatment.
How many cryotherapy sessions can I undergo daily?
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Two treatments daily is the max, spaced at least six hours apart.
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I heard working out after treatment is a good idea?
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Although your core body temperature will not drop during the 3 minute Cryotherapy treatment, it may start to cool a couple of degrees after exiting the chamber due to your body’s heat loss. To stabilize your body’s temperature as well as promote vasodilatation (expansion of the body’s blood vessels) it is recommended that 10 minutes of light exercise be performed post Cryotherapy. The movement will induce more rapid vasodilatation of the vessels and capillaries and can extend the period of analgesia as well as feelings of well being. The Q Athletic Performance Center provides exercise equipment for your use.
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What are the risks of whole body Cryotherapy?
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Whole body Cryotherapy 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 procedure, as your circulation returns to normal), allergic reaction to extreme cold (rare), claustrophobia, anxiety.
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Who should not use whole body cryotherapy?
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The following conditions are contraindications to whole body Cryotherapy:
• Pregnancy
• Severe Hypertension (BP >180/100)
• Acute or recent myocardial infarction
• Unstable anginapectoris
• Arrhythmia
• Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
• Cardiac pacemaker
• Cardiac Stint
• Peripheral arterial occlusive disease
• Venousthrombosis
• Acute or recent cerebro vascular accident
• COPD
• Uncontrolled seizures
• Raynaud’s Syndrome
• Fever
• Tumor disease
• Symptomatic lung disorders
• Bleeding disorders
• Severe anemia
• Infection
• Cold allergy
• Acute kidney and urinary tract diseases
• Open Wounds
• Ischemic heart disease
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