Cryotherapy, long reserved for the medical field and certain elite athletes, is enjoying growing popularity with the general public. This technique involves exposing the body to extremely low temperatures, sometimes as low as -140°C for a few minutes, in order to relieve pain and inflammation or promote physical recovery.
Used after intense exertion or in the context of certain chronic conditions, cold therapy is particularly valued for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Several specialists also mention improvements in sleep, mood, and muscle recovery, although scientific evidence remains incomplete regarding some of the benefits claimed by specialized centers.
A regulated practice that is not without risks
However, healthcare professionals emphasize that cryotherapy is not a miracle cure. Inserm points out that the effectiveness of this practice remains unevenly demonstrated depending on the medical indications, while some commercial claims regarding weight loss or "overall well-being" remain poorly supported by scientific evidence.
Exposure to extreme cold can also pose risks for certain individuals, particularly those with circulatory, cardiac, or respiratory problems. Experts therefore recommend close medical supervision and emphasize that sessions should be kept very short to avoid hypothermia, burns, or fainting.
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