Whole-body cryostimulation application with age: A review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cryotherapy
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Aging is associated with increased chronic inflammation and cognitive decline.
• Rheumatoid arthritis and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are prevalent conditions in older populations.
• Non-pharmacological interventions are sought to manage age-related diseases and enhance well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) in individuals over 55 years old.
• To explore WBC's potential in managing age-related inflammatory conditions and cognitive dysfunction.
• To assess WBC as a non-pharmacological therapeutic option for older adults.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) in older subjects (≥55 years).
• Analysis of blood-based factors, inflammatory markers, and cognitive function assessments post-WBC.
• Examination of WBC's impact on erythrocyte elasticity and neurotrophic factors.

Main Results:

• WBC increased Erythropoietin and Il-3 levels in exercised and normal subjects.
• Rheumatoid arthritis patients showed decreased IL-6 and TNF-α, with improved erythrocyte elasticity.
• Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) subjects exhibited enhanced short-term memory, reduced IL-6, and increased BDNF release.

Conclusions:

• Whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) demonstrates pleiotropic effects beneficial for older adults.
• WBC shows potential for enhancing physical performance and alleviating chronic inflammatory conditions.
• WBC is a promising, affordable therapeutic option for cognitive dysfunction, including Alzheimer's and dementia.