Local Cryo Stimulation - The OrthoHealing Center

Popularized in cosmetology for facial aesthetics and cellulite control, local cryo is now used in orthopedics and sports medicine.

What is it Local Cryo?

Local cryo provides short exposures to injured tissue with liquid nitrogen gas to up to -320 Deg F, while the skin surface temperature maintains between 30-50 deg F.

With nitrogen vapor, the skin is cooled down promoting vasoconstriction followed by rapid vasodilation, increasing blood flow microcirculation to a specific region to boost recovery and affect cellular activity.

A natural approach to reducing inflammation and pain.

Zero downtime
Quick treatment 5-10 Minutes.
Increased blood circulation
Reduced swelling
Aids in post procedure and post exercise recovery

How does it work?

Intensive vapor flows at extremely low temperatures up to -320 deg F that stimulates your body’s own thermoreceptors to signal pain receptors and cell signaling. Local vasoconstriction (reduced blood flow) followed by rapid vasodilation (increased blood flow) that promotes an analgesic effect to reduce pain. Lymphatic flow and micro-circulation are increased promoting metabolic enhancement, detoxification, with protein and cytokine signaling to reduce inflammation.

Natural Defense

Local cryo utilizes the body’s own ability to self-repair. Short exposure to extreme temperatures does not affect your core body temperature. This modality may be used to reduce pain to allow patients to resume rehab and training; a key component to restoring mobility and function without risks associated with more invasive procedures.

Time Efficient and Comfortable

Unlike traditional ice packs, local cryo takes 5-10 minutes per region with a potent effect leveraging cutting edge technology. Bathing in cold streams of air with zero moisture promotes a pleasant cooling sensation at extreme temperatures. As a bonus, the cold triggers a natural release of endorphin “feel good” peptide hormones.

How many treatments are required?

The number and frequency of treatments varies on the condition and severity. Traditionally patients receive local cryo 3x/week for 2 weeks to start. Local cryo may be combined with other modalities at Orthohealing Center like high powered Laser and Shockwave Therapyfor synergistic effects.

Are there any activity restrictions post local cryo?

No. Patients are encouraged to mobilize the area post treatment as tolerated and advised by their physician to promote circulation and metabolism.

Is Local Cryo Safe?

The iceberg has a unique thermal imaging handle with LCD display to indicate optimal temperature and to avoid excessive cooling to an area. An LED Laser light is utilized to promote the optimal distance from contact with the skin surface.

Do you feel cold afterwards?

No. The cold is not penetrating as the nitrogen vapor contains almost no moisture. The patient may experience a dull ache after treatment from the change in blood flow and micro-circulations immediately post treatment

Contraindications

Cold intolerance
Open wounds or ulcers
Current infection
Active cancer
Hypothyroidism if sensitive to cold

Is this covered by insurance?

No. Local cryo stim is self-pay but cost effective compared to invasive alternatives. Please contact our office to receive information on a la carte and package pricing.

Contact an Orthohealing representative to learn if Iceberg Local cryo is right for you.