CryoSpa

TEMPERATURE

The application of cold triggers three basic reactions

Firstly, at a cellular level, the metabolic response of the cells is reduced, so the cells need less oxygen to function and thereby suffer less hypoxic injury.

Secondly, the permeability of the blood vessel walls is decreased, thus reducing the amount of fluid that accumulates in the injured area.

And thirdly, the cold numbs the area to a certain degree, acting as a topical analgesic.

One of the best things about cold is that it does not override the beneficial effects of the body’s natural healing process.

SALT CONCENTRATION

The salt concentration of the water has a positive impact on the healing process.

Higher salt concentrations will draw away more of the fluids that accumulate around an injury.

Additionally, saltwater has been found to allow injuries to heal more quickly while inhibiting the risk of infection – salt being a natural sanitiser.

DEPTH OF WATER

The greater the depth of the water, the greater the physical pressure exerted on the tissues.

This aids the dispersal of the accumulated fluids acting much like a compression garment.

TURBULENCE

Aeration of the water has a two-fold effect: It increases the dissolved oxygen level of the water and the turbulence subjects the soft tissues to a massaging action.

It is thought that the increased oxygen level aids the healing process much as hyperbaric chambers do for humans, while the massage effect influences dispersal of fluids and ensures a penetrating cold.