Contraindications

WBCT is generally to constitute one component of a treatment plan. If indicated, it should be combined with active/activating somatically oriented treatment elements (movement therapy) and/or supported with behavioral therapy. When supplementing WBCT with localized cold applications, short-term cold-air therapy is advised. The application of WBCT can contribute to less use of medication, particularly in chronic pain and chronic joint disorders.

1. Untreated high blood pressure

2. Heart attack within the past six months

3. Decompensated diseases of the cardiovascular and respiratory system

4. Unstable angina

5. Pacemaker

6. Peripheral artery occlusive disease (Fontaine stages III and IV)

7. History of deep-vein thrombosis

8. Acute febrile diseases of the respiratory tract

9. Acute renal and urinary disorders

10. Severe anemia

11. Signs or symptoms of cold allergy

12. Severe wasting diseases

13. Seizure disorders

14. Large-area bacterial and viral skin infections, wound-healing problems

15. Alcohol and drug influence

1. Cardiac arrhythmias

2. Heart valve defects

3. Status post heart surgery

4. Ischemic heart disease

5. Raynaud's syndrome

6. Polyneuropathies

7. Pregnancy, starting in the 4th month

8. Vasculitis

9. Claustrophobia

10. Hypothyroidism

11. Hyperhidrosis

WBCT can be used from age 12-15 and onwards (with cold chamber temperatures of -90°C). Make sure to adjust the therapy frequency and time in the chamber.

WBCT is tolerated very well and is characterized by high compliance. With strict adherence to the indications, contraindications and instructions for use, side effects are extremely rare. The following may occur:

• local 1st and 2nd degree frostbite
• headaches or exacerbation of existing pain
• nonphysiological increase in arterial blood pressure
• signs and symptoms of cold allergy

The treating physician determines if WBCT is indicated, ruling out any contraindications. WBCT usually takes place in small groups. Patients wear conventional bathing suits, protection for the ends of the extremities, sturdy footwear. The skin and hair need to be dry. Blood pressure should not be higher than 160/100 mm Hg prior to cold exposure. People with impaired mobility, psychiatric patients and children need to be accompanied by experienced persons when they go into the cryochamber.

WBCT is applied 1-3 times a day at intervals of at least three hours. The exposure time is usually three minutes. The number of exposures in an uninterrupted (if possible) treatment cycle is geared toward the type, severity and stage of the disease. The number of exposures in one treatment cycle should not be less than 10. In the case of whole body cryotherapy for performance enhancement, the exposures are integrated into the individual training/recovery program.