Humans have used cold temperatures for therapeutic, health and sporting recovery purposes for centuries, according to the National Library of Medicine. The ancient Egyptians and Hippocrates recognized the therapeutic benefits of cryotherapy. The use of cold temperatures between -200 and -300 degrees Fahrenheit includes techniques such as ice application, cold-water immersion and cold-air exposure.
"Cryo instantly makes me feel better, mind and body, when I get done with the 3½-minute session," said Austin resident Chris Andrews, a client of Recovery Lab and Cryo, located in the Crestview neighborhood.
Andrews first started cryotherapy treatments for the sports injuries he had suffered throughout the years. However, he had to switch to red light therapy when he was diagnosed with brain cancer because the cryotherapy conflicted with his chemotherapy.
Andrews adopted healthier lifestyle habits to improve his overall physical and mental health, and Recovery Lab plays an integral part in his regimen.
"The benefits I am seeking are general tweaks and improvements,” he said. “I have spinal degeneration that leads to low back and neck pain, so I incorporate cryo into my pain management for that. It also helps with my depression. I'm also seeking to keep my body in optimal condition to keep my brain cancer from returning."
Rene Villa opened the boutique wellness center at the end of 2021 with one goal: to help Austin residents with their health and well-being.
“From our whole-body electric cryotherapy to infrared sauna, these services can positively impact a person's overall physical and mental fitness,” said Villa.
Andrews agrees: "I trained as a professional wrestler for six months, so I have sports injuries that are difficult to address. I keep the pain at bay through these efforts. By using the facility regularly, the effects of these treatments really start to take shape with routine use.”