Have you ever heard of cryotherapy?
Many people are turning to the chilly treatment to ease muscle inflammation after extreme workouts. But is it worth it?
Susan Lapetina thinks so. She finds her regular sessions at Capital Cryo studio in Northwest Washington improve her tennis game.
"I was skeptical at first, but after several treatments I had no pain playing my matches or being on the court for several hours," Lapentina said.
Many of Capital’s clients are active and credit whole body cryotherapy with soothing their aches and pains.
"A lot of times, I do this after a really long run," said Mary Jo Slidell. "And right after my run, it hurts to walk if I’ve done, like, a long training run. As soon as I’ve done this, I can come out and bend over pain free, and it lasts, definitely, at least for a few days."
Treatments last about three minutes. Clients enter the cryosauna wearing only undergarments, socks, shoes and gloves for protection. Once inside, the temperature drops to sub-freezing temperatures.
Local
Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
Liz Gondela, Capital Cryo’s director of services, said with time, clients get better at braving that cold.
"There is a lot going on. By the second and third time, you become a pro," Gondela said.
Others are finding the cold is good for their complexions. A 10-minute cryofacial session sends blasts of cold air onto the face. Mariangela Compagnone saw a difference right away.
"This morning, I woke up, kind of feeling puffy and I feel like it took it away immediately," Compagnone said.
Capital Cryo offers localized treatments for specific parts of the body.
Though customers report enhanced sleep, energy levels and other benefits, it is important to note that the Food and Drug Administration has not approved cryotherapy for treatment of any illness or disease.
