Frequently Asked Questions
You might have a lot of questions for us. Never hesitate to reach out and ask us any questions you have or if you would like more information regarding the answers below. SF Cryotherapy Toronto is always happy to help.
What is whole-body cryotherapy?
Whole body cryotherapy (a.k.a. Cryo, some people even call it body freezing therapy) is the exposure of an individual to extremely low temperatures (-170 C or -274 F) for 3 minutes in order to decrease pain and inflammation and boost hormone and neurotransmitter levels. The result is decreased recovery time and pain from intense workouts, injuries, and chronic conditions, increased energy levels, anti-aging, and mood-boosting effects.
How and why was whole body cryotherapy developed?
Cryotherapy machines were originally developed in the 1970s in order to help people that suffered from rheumatoid arthritis. When dramatic improvements were seen in patients (decreased swelling, decreased pain, increased mobility) researchers began to look at whole body cryotherapy as a treatment modality for other diseases such as rheumatism, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and other musculoskeletal disorder. Eventually, athletes discovered cryotherapy’s benefits and it has now become widely adopted.
Am I cold after my session? How do I warm up after cryotherapy? Do you have saunas?
You never have to worry about warming up after a cryotherapy session. You may feel cold spots on the surface of your skin, but you warm up immediately after stepping out of the machine. In fact due to the sudden increase in your base metabolic rate and calorie burn you will feel warm after your session and don't have to worry about extra layers, hot drinks, or doing a sauna to warm up or increase blood flow. Cryotherapy does all of that for you!
Who shouldn’t use Cryotherapy?
Anyone who is currently sick, pregnant, has severe, unmanaged hypertension (BP> 180/100), has a cardiac pacemaker, is being treated for cancer, has deep vein thrombosis, acute or recent myocardial infarction, uncontrolled seizures, fever, unstable angina pectoris, cold allergy, acute kidney and urinary tract diseases, or is under influence of drugs or alcohol.
What do I wear in the cryo?
Because of the very low temperatures, no metal jewelry or piercing below the neck are allowed on you while in the cryosauna. If you cannot remove certain jewelry or piercings they can be covered with athletic tap that will be provide. Clients are required to wear cotton or wool foot and hand protection (provided) and either underwear or a bathing suit to protect intimate body parts. All other clothing is removed.