Where pain submits to cold

Whole Body Cryotherapy that involves a three minute session in a -110 ºC chamber is the latest medical miracle to hit the Indian shores. Said to be a favourite with European Olympic teams for its pain relief abilities, the treatment is now available in Chennai, thanks to Soundarapandian Bone and Joint Hospital and Research Institute.

Engineered way back in 1978 in Japan, it was Professor Z Fricke’s research in 1984 that made it popular across the world. Dr Ravi Subramaniam of Sounderapandian Bone and Joints says, “After its tremendous success in European countries we are certain WBC is going to help Indians with its unique capabilities. It is after all amazing that three minutes a day in the cold chamber radically reduces your medication intake, minimises your pain tremendously, boosts up immune system with a general well-being rush setting in.”

First time in India

As to how this therapy made it to India, he says, “I have been in close touch with its pioneer  Prof Reinhard Fricke Sendenhorst of Germany for the last 15 years through the Rotary Club of Ambattur. He had helped us in many of our projects. When I visited his centre about four years ago, the results I saw were phenomenal. This spurred me to import this technology.” He adds, “Children with juvenile arthritis were the ones who benefitted a lot and we plan to give free treatment for children with arthritis through the Rotary club of Ambattur.”

Inside the chamber

Briefing about how cryotherapy actually works, Dr Subramaniam says, “The visitor enters the chamber wearing socks, gloves, mouth and ear protection and in addition to this, we encourage him to wear something that will allow maximum exposure to the cold like a swimsuit. The visitor will be in the room for about three minutes or less as advised by the doctor.” The immediate result he says will be a tingling sensation over the exposed skin areas and a boost to the energy levels because of a huge release of natural endorphins. Apart from relief from chronic pain, the other benefits of the therapy includes a boost to the immune system, improvement in metabolism and blood circulation, reduction of psychological stress and insomnia and stimulation of general well-being.

Asthma meets its match

The treatment also helps in asthma, Dr Subramaniam says, “Cryo has a phenomenal anti-inflammatory effect on the mucosa of the alveoli.  Normally, asthmatic conditions get worse when exposed to cold but not here.” As for potential side-effects, he informs that they are usually minor like a cold burn.