Cold burn injury after treatment at whole-body cryotherapy facility

Abstract

Traditionally, cryotherapy has been used in dermatology to treat skin lesions, such as actinic keratoses, viral warts, seborrheic keratoses, and select keratinocyte carcinomas. Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) is a new and trendy treatment of which practitioners should be aware because of potential adverse events. WBC is a popular technique used for purported improvements in muscle recovery, back pain, muscle stiffness, energy, sleep, and skin health among other benefits. This technique was originally given to patients with multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis because of claimed beneficial effects, such as analgesia and decreased inflammation.1 It has since become accepted by athletes and more accessible through various spas, wellness centers, and cryotherapy facilities.