Whole Body Cryotherapy Improves Fibromyalgia
exciting new trial findings published in advanced rheumatology
Whole Body Cryotherapy has been extensively studied over the last several decades for a myriad of pain-related conditions. Initially developed for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, the anti-inflammatory effects of this powerhouse modality are widely known and celebrated. Aside from its proven ability to reduce inflammation, Whole Body Cryotherapy can combat pain, boost energy, alleviate post-workout soreness, kickstart your metabolism, and so much more. It's also a crowd favorite, due to its unparalleled safety and convenience: 3.5 minutes, a few times per week, and you reap a long list of lasting benefits.
Recently, a trial was published in Advances in Rheumatology, a journal studying cutting-edge therapies for inflammatory disorders. In this trial, entitled “Serial whole-body cryotherapy in fibromyalgia is effective and alters cytokine profiles”, researchers recruited 23 fibromyalgia patients and 30 healthy controls. All trial participants underwent six Whole Body Cryotherapy sessions at -130 degrees. These sessions took place over a six week period, and were 90 seconds to three minutes in duration. After the completion of the trial, researchers concluded that Whole Body Cryotherapy had a clinically measurable impact on fibromyalgia-related pain, disease activity, and cytokine levels.
The results of this trial were most likely due to the fact that Whole Body Cryotherapy can alter levels of inflammatory cytokines in the body. Since these cytokines are hallmarks of pain-related conditions like fibromyalgia and other forms of inflammatory arthritis, this cytokine reduction translated to less pain, inflammation, fatigue, and overall fibromyalgia discomfort. These findings are promising, as fibromyalgia is in a category of diseases that are difficult to treat, as symptoms vary among patients, and the pharmaceutical interventions are often riddled with side effects. To read more about this trial and the clinical findings, click here.
science Supporting the Use of Wbc for Fibromyalgia
The trial discussed above is only one of several pieces of scientific evidence that supports the use of Whole Body Cryotherapy for fibromyalgia. Below, we’ve linked a few additional studies that reached similar findings.
Effect of whole body cryotherapy interventions on health-related quality of life in fibromyalgia patients: A randomized controlled trial
The effect of cryotherapy on fibromyalgia: a randomised clinical trial carried out in a cryosauna cabin
Effects of 15 consecutive cryotherapy sessions on the clinical output of fibromyalgic patients
What our clients are saying
At Huemn, we’ve met dozens of clients whose unmanaged fibromyalgia brings them through our doors. Due to how tricky some FM symptoms are, coupled with the difficulty of treatment, many individuals opt for less invasive medical interventions to control their disease. Based on the our experience, we have found that when individuals first come to see us, they are in quite a bit of pain, and require more frequent treatment than normal athletic recovery or “wear and tear” type injuries. This usually looks like daily Whole Body Cryotherapy for the first week or so. These first 7 days prove to be immensely valuable at lowering systemic inflammation levels, which can alter the cytokine production in the body. Have you seen this testimonial where Jeff reduced his CRP by 70% in those first seven days? If not, check it out!
After the first week, most members can reduce their frequency to 3-5x per week, aiming to come in as frequently as their schedule allows for the next 30 days or so. Some cases will vary, due to disease severity, symptoms, and overall response to treatment. After that initial month, our clients typically see a night and day difference in their quality of life, energy levels, and overall pain and inflammation. Once that relief is achieved, members can move to the “maintenance phase", where they come in a few times per week. This is typically needed in order to keep their inflammation levels low, given the fact that at its root, FM is an inflammatory disease, and keeping inflammation levels within a healthy range is paramount to feeling your best.
“Finally found the relief from a lifetime of pain from rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia here at Huemn. Imagine waking up each morning without pain…oh my gosh!” -Donna
“I have been doing Cryo (full body) every day followed by compression therapy for about a week now! My fibromyalgia symptoms are greatly relieved and my skin looks much improved!” -Linsey
“Feel amazing!! Staff is knowledgeable and kind!! I'm thrilled I have found this place for my healing for Fibromyalgia!” -Kim