Effective cooling for inflamed tissue
Gentle deep-tissue cryotherapy to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
Cryotherapy is a modern method for treating pain and inflammation, in which the affected tissue is cooled to a controlled temperature – without damaging the skin’s surface. A special temperature sensor ensures that the cold only acts at the desired depth and that the outermost layer of skin remains protected.
Thanks to this targeted application, the cold exerts its effect exactly where it is needed: reducing swelling, combating inflammation and relieving pain. The treatment is quick, gentle and particularly suitable for acute or chronic conditions affecting joints, muscles or tendons.
How does cryotherapy work?
In cryotherapy, the affected tissue is frozen without damaging the skin’s surface. A special sensor ensures that the surface temperature does not drop too low, thereby preventing skin damage. The cold acts specifically at a deeper level, where it has an anti-inflammatory, decongestant and pain-relieving effect.
What are the benefits of cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy at Dr Beate Helgers’ practice offers an effective solution for treating a range of conditions. It has
- anti-inflammatory: the cold penetrates deep into the tissue and specifically reduces inflammation.
- It reduces swelling: for bruises, sprains or following a fall, the treatment helps to reduce swelling and fluid build-up.
- pain-relieving: The cooling effect soothes irritation and effectively reduces pain, which improves mobility.
- soothing: The cold has a calming effect on irritated joints and tissues, thereby supporting the healing process.
Where do we use cryotherapy?
- For the treatment of inflamed joints:
Following injuries such as falls, sprains or bruises, cryotherapy can significantly reduce swelling and pain. - Before injections:
Cryotherapy constricts blood vessels and relieves pain, thereby minimising the risk of haematomas (bruises) following an injection. Furthermore, patients find the treatment much more comfortable, as the cold acts as an additional anaesthetic.
Why choose cryotherapy
at Dr Helgers’ practice?
Our patients particularly appreciate cryotherapy, as it is used not only for acute injuries but also as a preventative measure, for example before injections.
It provides immediate pain relief, has an anti-inflammatory effect and reduces the risk of complications.
We place the utmost importance on providing holistic and personalised care for our patients.
Cryotherapy is an integral part of our comprehensive range of orthopaedic treatments, designed to provide you with rapid relief and lasting recovery.
Contact
How can we help you?
Do you have any further questions about cryotherapy? Please feel free to book an appointment – we’ll provide you with personalised advice and help you regain pain-free mobility!
Questions and Answers on Cryotherapy
FAQs
I often suffer from swelling and pain in my joints – when might cryotherapy be a good option for me?
If you suffer from recurring swelling, joint pain or the after-effects of injuries such as bruises and sprains, cryotherapy can provide rapid and gentle relief. It is particularly effective for acute pain following overexertion or injury, and also helps with chronic joint problems such as osteoarthritis. We also use this therapy as an adjunct to prevent swelling following injections or operations.
What does cryotherapy feel like? Is the treatment uncomfortable?
Cryotherapy is not painful for most patients; rather, it is perceived as cooling and soothing. Thanks to a special sensor, the cold is delivered to the tissue in a controlled manner without the skin becoming too cold. Particularly in cases of acute swelling and pain, many patients find the cold pleasantly soothing. We always ensure that you feel completely at ease during your treatment at our practice.
I have severe osteoarthritis – can cryotherapy relieve my pain?
Yes, cryotherapy is particularly effective for osteoarthritis and chronic joint pain. Targeted cooling reducesswelling, dampens painsignals and inhibits the inflammatory process. This takes the strain off the affected joint and can help you regain mobility and reduce your need for painkillers. Many patients report a significant improvement in their symptoms after just a few sessions.
Can cryotherapy really help to avoid surgery?
In many cases, yes. If your joints are severely swollen or inflamed, cryotherapy can help stabilise the condition to such an extent that surgery can be delayed or even avoided. Cryotherapy offers a gentle alternative to invasive procedures, particularly in cases of osteoarthritis or following injuries. When combined with other forms of treatment, such as injections or physiotherapy, we can often alleviate the symptoms to such an extent that surgery is no longer necessary.
How much time should I allow for a cryotherapy session?
Depending on the aim of the treatment, a cryotherapy session used as a form of anaesthesia prior to injections lasts only a few minutes. For anti-inflammatory treatment, the session usually lasts no longer than 10 to 20 minutes, depending on which joints or areas are being treated. The treatment can be easily incorporated into your daily routine, as it is neither painful nor time-consuming. You can often resume your usual activities straight after the session.