Cryotherapy VS Ice Baths
Cryotherapy was first introduced to the United States in the 1980’s by Japanese rheumatologist Toshima Yamaguchi. Cryotherapy and ice baths are actually part of the same family of treatments: cold exposure. When most people think of cryotherapy they’re thinking of a cold chamber, the tall boxes that you step into. They look a bit like a science experiment, with the water fog boiling out of it. Both ice baths and cold chambers function on the same principle. Cryotherapy and ice baths are popular methods for reducing inflammation, improving recovery times, and many claim there are even mental benefits to cold exposure. Even a reduction in anxiety! In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of cryotherapy (cold chambers) and ice baths so that you know what’s best for you!
Benefits of Cryotherapy
The core difference between the two methods boils down to accessibility. Both provide many of the same reported cold benefits. Cryo chambers are expensive, large, and often require a trip to a facility to perform the treatment. These chambers expose the user to air temperatures near -220°F while ice baths can be around 50°F. Cryo sessions are often much quicker than ice baths, clocking in at around only a few minutes. However, don’t forget to factor travel time to the facility in if you’re judging based solely on your busy schedule!
Benefits of Ice Baths
Ice baths offer slightly different benefits. Ice baths are done by submerging yourself in cold water (typically around 50°F) for a few minutes at a time. Ice baths are the far more accessible way of getting your cold exposure. All it requires is ice and a tub large enough for you to get into! There’s several options online including retail and DIY methods of making your own ice bath. Many of these methods are less expensive than their cryotherapy chamber counterparts. I’ve even seen people freeze water bottles, so you have ‘reusable’ ice! Just toss your bottles in when you’re ready, and take them out and put them back in the freezer when you’re done! Remember, with any cold body of water the possibility of cold shock exists. Never get into a body of water that is too cold. That cold temperature is different for everyone, so it’s best to start warmer, and get a little colder as you go.
Both Cryotherapy and ice baths have many of the same reported benefits. Reduced recovery time, reduced anxiety, and increases in healthy brown fat. The science is still out on if one of these is better than the other, however if you’re looking for an easy, relatively cheap and accessible method of cold exposure, it may be best to start with a cold shower, and then move into ice baths. As with any cold exposure treatment, it’s important to always practice these methods safely and consult your physician first!
