What is cryotherapy and how does it work?
Cryotherapy is a pain treatment that uses a method of localized freezing temperatures to deaden an irritated nerve. Cryotherapy is also used as a method of treating localized areas of some cancers (called cryosurgery), such as prostate cancer and to treat abnormal skin cells by dermatologists. In this article we only discuss its use in nerve conditions.
In cryotherapy, a probe is inserted into the tissue next to the affected nerve. The temperature of the probe drops to then effectively freeze the nerve. The freezing inactivates the nerve and, as a result, painful nerve irritation is relieved. Cryotherapy is a relatively safe and effective means of treating localized nerve irritation.
What conditions can be treated with cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy can be used to treat conditions that involve irritation of an isolated nerve. In general, such conditions include benign nerve growths (neuromas) and pinched nerves (nerve entrapments). Specific examples include nerve irritation between the ribs (intercostal neuralgia), cluneal nerve entrapment, ilioinguinal neuroma, hypogastric neuromas, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve entrapment, and interdigital neuromas. Many forms of nerve entrapment can often be treated with cryotherapy.
What are the side effects of cryotherapy?
While cryotherapy can reduce unwanted nerve irritation, it sometimes can leave the tissue affected with unusual sensations, such as numbness or tingling, or with redness and irritation of the skin. These effects are generally temporary.
Where is cryotherapy performed?
Cryotherapy procedures are usually performed in the doctor's office.
Medically reviewed by Joseph Carcione, DO; American board of Psychiatry and Neurology
REFERENCE:
Goldstein, Beth G., MD. "Dermatologic procedures." UptoDate. Updated Jan 27, 2016.
Quick GuideChronic Pain: Causes and Solutions
Daily Health News
Health News FeedTrending on MedicineNet
From 
Pain Management Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's General Health Newsletter
By clicking Submit, I agree to the MedicineNet's Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet's subscriptions at any time.
- Cryotherapy in Pain Management Related Diseases
- Cryotherapy in Pain Management Images & Quizzes
- Cryotherapy in Pain Management Index
REFERENCE:
Goldstein, Beth G., MD. "Dermatologic procedures." UptoDate. Updated Jan 27, 2016.
Top Cryotherapy Related Articles
Cutaneous Horns Picture
The cutaneous horn appears as a funnel-shaped growth that extends from a red base on the skin. See a picture of Cutaneous Horns and learn more about the health topic.
Keloid
A keloid is a scar that doesn't know when to stop. When the cells keep on reproducing, the result is an overgrown (hypertrophic) scar or a keloid. A keloid looks shiny and is often dome-shaped, ranging in color from slightly pink to red. It feels hard and thick and is always raised above the surrounding skin.
Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a procedure used to remove abnormal tissues of the cervix. LEEP is used often to treat mild to moderate dysplasia. The effectiveness of LEEP is comparable to:- cryotherapy,
- cold knife conization,
- laser ablation,
- or laser conization.
Molluscum Contagiosum Facts
Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease that causes pink painless bumps on the skin. It typically resolves in six to 12 months. Cryotherapy, laser therapy, and curettage may also treat the nodules of molluscum contagiosum.
Neuropathic Pain (Nerve Pain)
Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition that leads to ongoing pain symptoms. Patients can be predisposed to developing neuropathic pain who have conditions such as:- diabetes,
- cancer,
- stroke,
- HIV,
- vitamin deficiencies,
- shingles, and
- multiple sclerosis.
Pain Management
Pain management and treatment can be simple or complex, according to its cause. There are two basic types of pain, nociceptive pain and neuropathic pain. Some causes of neuropathic pain include:- complex regional pain syndrome,
- interstitial cystitis,
- and irritable bowel syndrome.
Pinched Nerve Overview
A pinched nerve causes pain, numbness, or tingling in the affected area due to pressure on a nerve. Caral tunnel and sciatica are two examples of conditions caused by a pinched nerve. A pinched nerve is diagnosed by taking a patient history and performing a physical examination. Electromyography may be performed. Treatment for a pinched nerve depends on the underlying cause.
Prostate Cancer Slides
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. Learn the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer, along with causes and treatments. Know the stages, survival rates and lower your risk of prostate cancer.
Prostate Specific Antigen
Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that is found in the semen. PSA levels are used to detect prostate cancer and monitor the progression of the disease. A condition called benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) can also cause elevated PSA levels.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is the separation of the retina from its attachments to the underlying eye tissue. Symptoms of retinal detachment include flashing lights and floaters. Highly nearsighted young adults and those who've had cataract surgery are at higher risk for retinal detachment.
STDs in Men Overview
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections transmitted during sexual contact. They may be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. STDs in men cause no symptoms or symptoms like
- burning,
- itching,
- sores,
- rashes, or
- discharge.
Common STDs in men include:
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Genital warts
- Genital herpes
Some STDs in men are treatable while others are not. STDs are diagnosed with tests that identify proteins or genetic material of the organisms causing the infection. The prognosis of an STD depends on whether the infection is treatable or not. Use of latex condoms can help reduce the risk of contracting an STD but it does not eliminate the risk entirely.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Pain that originates in the face is referred to as trigeminal neuralgia. This pain may be caused by:- an injury,
- an infection in the face,
- a nerve disorder, or
- it can occur for no known reason.
Patient Comments
Was cryotherapy effective in deadening your nerve pain?
PostWhat condition did you treat with cryotherapy?
Post View 2 CommentsDid you experience any side effects after cryotherapy?
Post