What is Cold Plunge Therapy?
Cold Plunge Therapy involves submerging yourself in cold water for a short amount of time to experience the invigorating health benefits. This technique stimulates leukocytes, the white blood cells that help your body fight off illness. It also causes the lymphatic system to contract, forcing fluid through the lymph nodes detoxing the body and strengthening the immune system. It has also been shown to increase your baseline dopamine, the molecule in your brain that is linked to motivation.
Some people recognize the name Polar Plunge, which is a similar concept, but more spontaneous and done in ice-covered lakes. At FLOAT STL, we create a controlled environment using a bathtub. Athletes of all skill levels are familiar with Cold Plunge Therapy as physicians use extreme cold for pain management.
Benefits of Cold Plunge Therapy
PAIN MANAGEMENT
From sprains to arthritis pain or swelling as a result of injury or chronic inflammatory issues, Cold Therapy reduces swelling and provides relief.
MENTAL RESILIENCE
Repetitive exposure to extremely cold temperatures can help you build the mental ability to handle different types of stress.
STRENGTHENS IMMUNITY
A 2016 study revealed that even taking a cold shower, for as little as 30 seconds, resulted in a 29% reduction in sick days.
IMPROVED HEART HEALTH
It has been suggested that cold water therapy can reduce heart rage, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
