Cryotherapy in Port Moody
When your body feels sore, swollen, or overworked, simple solutions can sometimes make a real difference. Cryotherapy is a modern, targeted approach to cold therapy that helps calm irritated areas and assist your body’s natural recovery process.
How Does Cryotherapy Work?
Cryotherapy at Optimum Family Chiropractic uses a handheld device that delivers pressurised CO2 cooling to a specific area. Rather than using a whole-body chamber, this approach focuses only on the area that needs attention, allowing for fast, targeted cold therapy.
You can think of it as a more efficient version of icing. A traditional ice pack may take 10 to 20 minutes to cool an area, while cryotherapy can often reach a therapeutic temperature within 30 to 60 seconds. Because the cooling is so precise, nearby tissues are not affected in the same way, which can feel more comfortable than regular icing.
The Science Behind It
The technology works through a process called thermal shock. By applying CO₂ gas at −110°F under high pressure, the device rapidly lowers the skin’s surface temperature—from approximately 89.6°F to 39.6°F—in just 30 seconds. This abrupt temperature change stimulates the skin’s neuroreceptors and triggers a reflex response that activates the neurovegetative system.
This rapid cooling produces a range of physiological effects, including:
- Enhanced endocrine and enzymatic activity
- Reduced pain sensations through decreased nerve signal activity
- Activation of vasomotor responses in the vascular and lymphatic systems
- Muscle relaxation and reduced muscle tone and tension
Who May Benefit?
Cryotherapy may be helpful for people dealing with:
- Recent sprains or strains
- Tendon irritation or repetitive strain concerns
- Neck, back, shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, or ankle discomfort
- Soreness after sport, exercise, or physical work
- Flare-ups that feel irritated or inflamed
It may also be added after chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, or osteopathy to help settle an area that has been worked on.
Cryotherapy may not be appropriate for everyone. It is generally not recommended over open skin concerns or for people with reduced skin sensation, including some cases of neuropathy. We will always take the time to understand your health history before recommending care.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your visit begins with a conversation so we can understand what is going on and what you are hoping to achieve.
During the session, the device is moved gently over the skin in short intervals, usually 30 seconds to a minute per area. Many patients describe the feeling as cooling and soothing, without the heaviness or stiffness that can come with an ice pack.
Some people notice a change right away, such as less pressure or easier movement. Others notice the most benefit when cryotherapy is combined with hands-on care.
Why Patients Choose Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is quick, localised, and easy to add to your visit. It can help calm an aggravated area without cooling everything around it.
For some, this is especially helpful when irritation keeps returning and does not fully settle. The cooling effect can help ease that cycle and make it easier to continue with your care plan. It is not a replacement for a full assessment, but a practical option that can be used alongside it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this whole-body cryotherapy?
How is this different from using ice at home?
How quickly will I notice a difference?
How many sessions will I need?
Can it be combined with other services?
Ready to Try Cryotherapy?
If you are dealing with soreness, swelling, or recurring irritation, cryotherapy may be a helpful addition to your care. Book your visit online to view pricing and availability, or connect with our Port Moody team to learn more.
