Celebrities Embrace Cryotherapy: Cold Water Therapy Takes Center Stage

In recent times, a wave of celebrities, including Kartik Aaryan, Rakul Preet Singh, Vidyut Jammwal, Samantha, and sisters Neha Sharma and Aisha Sharma, has been sharing glimpses of their chilling adventures with cold water therapy on social media. Cryotherapy, a treatment that involves sub-zero temperatures, has been making headlines for its numerous benefits, not only for physical health but also for mental well-being and skin health.

Cryotherapy Unveiled: Chilling in the Name of Wellness

Cryotherapy comes in various forms, from ice packs and coolant sprays to ice massage and ice baths. One popular method is cold water dips, where individuals submerge their bodies in water chilled to 15 degrees Celsius or lower. The result? It’s a shock to the system that might just have a multitude of benefits.

Studies have shown that immersing oneself in icy water can trigger the release of stress hormones such as noradrenaline and cortisol. On the flip side, other research reports an increase in brain chemicals like dopamine and endorphins, which are known mood regulators. To uncover the science behind this wellness procedure, we consulted with medical professionals, orthopaedics, and celebrity fitness trainers who shared their insights.

The Medical Perspective

Dr. Gurdeep Avinash Ratra, a Consultant in Orthopedics at Manipal Hospital, Gurugram, emphasizes that cryotherapy extends beyond cold therapy and can be used to treat certain bone tumours. This involves the use of extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue with specialized probes, offering a promising alternative to traditional surgery for eligible patients.

Dr. Ashutosh Shukla, MD, FACP, Medical Advisor & Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Max Hospital, Gurugram, points out the mental benefits of cold water exposure. It helps build mental resilience and discipline by allowing the mind to become comfortable in a state of discomfort, potentially improving stress management. Additionally, immersion in cold water can reduce chronic inflammation, which in turn aids in reducing depression, boosts the immune system, and leaves you feeling more alert and alive.

Dr. Tushar Tayal, Lead Consultant in the Department of Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explains that cold therapy can activate the immune system by increasing antibodies and T cells, potentially aiding in weight loss by revving up the metabolism. Moreover, post-exercise therapy may reduce muscle soreness and improve insulin sensitivity.

Dr. Monica Bambroo, Head of Dermatology at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, highlights the cosmetic aspect of cryotherapy. It’s a fat-freezing technique that enhances skin tone by improving blood flow and collagen production, leading to skin tightening. However, precision and expertise are crucial, as improper application can lead to uneven skin and cold burns.

Celebrity fitness coach Shivohaam emphasizes the relevance of cryotherapy for fitness enthusiasts. It aids in creating inflammation within muscles, helping them respond and grow. He recommends incorporating cold water therapy into your routine, especially after a workout.

The Cold Truth: Drawbacks and Risks

While cryotherapy offers several benefits, it’s not without its risks:

1. Potential Risks: Although generally safe, there are potential risks such as nerve damage or incomplete tumour destruction.
2. Shock Factor: Exposure to extremely cold water can result in shock, leading to a fast heart rate, higher blood pressure, and shortness of breath.
3. Hypothermia: Prolonged exposure to cold water can lead to hypothermia, increasing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms (Arrhythmias) and possibly cardiac arrest.
4. At-Risk Individuals: People with underlying heart conditions and the elderly are at greater risk, including loss of consciousness and drowning.
5. Extreme Cold: Prolonged immersion in temperatures below 70 °F can lead to hypothermia, with body temperature falling below 95 °F and the risk of death.

Pro Tips for a Safe Chill

Dr. Shukla recommends starting with short periods of time, gradually increasing as your body adapts to the cold. Listening to your body is key; there’s no need to push yourself too hard. If you start shivering, you’ve likely reached your limit for that specific plunge. Begin with three days per week for the first few weeks to gauge how your body responds. Recent studies suggest that 11 minutes a week of full submersion is an ideal benchmark.

Cryotherapy, with its unique blend of physical and mental health benefits, is an intriguing trend embraced by many celebrities. However, like any wellness procedure, it comes with potential risks. The key is to be well-informed, take necessary precautions, and consult a healthcare professional before diving into the icy waters of cryotherapy. If done correctly, it might just be a cool new addition to your wellness routine.

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