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cryotherapy

Fast, focused cold therapy designed to support recovery, reduce inflammation, and help your body feel better—often in just a few minutes. Whether you’re an athlete, dealing with stubborn aches, or simply want a reset, cryotherapy can be a powerful add-on to your care plan.

Clinical-grade testing used in sports performance and health optimization.

Cryotherapies we offer

Whole Body Cryo 

A short, intense cold exposure designed to support whole-body recovery, reduce soreness, and promote an overall “reset” feeling.

Common reasons people choose it:

  • Post-workout recovery + reduced soreness

  • General inflammation support

  • Nervous system “refresh”

  • Energy + mood boost (many people report this)

Spot Cryo

Spot/Cryo Facial

A focused cold application to a specific region (like a shoulder, knee, hip, low back, etc.). Great when you want a more localized approach.

  • Common reasons people choose it:

  • Targeted pain relief for a specific area

  • Tendon/overuse irritation support

  • Post-training “hot spot” recovery

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What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy uses controlled cold exposure to create a rapid cooling effect on the skin and superficial tissues.

 

This cold stimulus may help decrease pain sensitivity, calm inflammation, and support recovery by influencing circulation and the nervous system.  At Pivotal Connections, cryotherapy is commonly used as part of a bigger plan—paired with physical therapy, strength work, massage, or recovery strategies. 

Who is Cryotherapy For?

​​Cryotherapy is popular for:

  • Athletes in training blocks (soccer, runners, lifters, weekend warriors)

  • People with persistent joint or muscle irritation

  • Clients stacking recovery tools during high-stress / high-workload seasons

  • Anyone who wants a fast recovery option that fits a busy schedule

  • If you’re unsure whether it’s appropriate for you, we’ll help you decide.

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Benefits People Report

While responses vary person to person, many clients report:

  • Reduced soreness and “heaviness”

  • Easier movement after activity

  • A noticeable nervous system shift (calmer or more energized)

  • Faster recovery between workouts

  • Short-term pain relief

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What to Expect

Typical flow:

Quick intake + safety screen

Staff-guided setup

Session (usually just a few minutes)

Post-session check-in + recommendations (hydrate, movement, pairing suggestions)

 

What to wear / bring:

Comfortable clothing

Dry socks (if required for your setup)

Remove damp clothing (sweat/rain) before a session


Your session is quick and guided. We’ll walk you through the process, check comfort and safety, and tailor the exposure based on your goals and experience level.

How often should you do cryo?

Depends on your goals.

 

Recovery / performance: 1–3x/week during heavy training

 

Flare-ups / irritated areas: short-term consistency (ex: a few sessions over 1–2 weeks)

 

General wellness: as needed (some people love a weekly reset)We can help you choose a schedule that makes sense for your body and routine.

FAQ Cryo

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

​​

What exactly does cryotherapy do?

Cryotherapy uses brief, controlled cold exposure to stimulate a physiological response in the body. This response may help reduce pain sensitivity, calm inflammation, influence circulation, and support nervous system regulation. Many people use it to feel better faster after training, injury, or periods of high stress.

How is cryotherapy different from using ice at home?

While ice packs cool the surface, cryotherapy delivers a more controlled and intense cold stimulus for a much shorter period of time. This can create a stronger neurological and circulatory response—without long exposure times or the discomfort of prolonged icing.

Is cryotherapy safe?

For most people, yes. Cryotherapy is generally well tolerated when properly screened and supervised. We review safety guidelines before your first session and tailor the experience based on your health history, comfort level, and goals.

Who should not do cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy may not be appropriate if you have certain medical conditions, including (but not limited to):

  • Cold hypersensitivity or cold urticaria

  • Raynaud’s phenomenon

  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure

  • Certain cardiovascular conditions

  • Open wounds in the treatment area

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help you decide if cryotherapy is appropriate—or suggest a better option.

How cold is it?

Cold exposure is intense but brief. Sessions are designed to be short enough to be effective while remaining safe and manageable. Our staff monitors you throughout the session and can stop or adjust at any time.

How long does a session take?

The cold portion itself is typically just a few minutes. Plan for a short visit overall, including check-in and post-session guidance.

Will it hurt?

Most people describe cryotherapy as very cold but tolerable. Sensations can include tingling, pins-and-needles, or pressure. Discomfort typically resolves quickly once the session ends.

How will I feel afterward?

Responses vary, but common experiences include:

  • Reduced soreness or stiffness

  • A feeling of lightness or ease of movement

  • Increased alertness or energy

  • A calm or reset feeling

Occasionally, people feel temporarily fatigued or “off” afterward—this usually passes within a short time.

How many sessions do I need?

That depends on your goal.

  • Recovery or performance: often used 1–3 times per week during heavy training

  • Acute soreness or flare-ups: short-term consistency over 1–2 weeks

  • General wellness: used as needed or as a weekly reset

We can help you decide what makes the most sense for your body.

Can I do cryotherapy if I’m injured?

Often yes, but it depends on the type of injury and where you are in the healing process. Cryotherapy is commonly used alongside physical therapy or massage to help manage symptoms while you continue active recovery.

Should I do cryotherapy before or after a workout?

Most people use cryotherapy after training to support recovery. Timing matters, especially if strength or adaptation is your goal—our team can help you decide when it fits best.

Can cryotherapy help with inflammation?

Many people use cryotherapy as part of an inflammation-management strategy. While individual responses vary, cold exposure may help temporarily calm inflammatory symptoms and discomfort.

How does targeted (spot) cryotherapy differ from whole-body?

  • Whole-body cryotherapy provides a systemic response and is often used for overall recovery, soreness, and nervous system support.

  • Targeted cryotherapy focuses on a specific area (shoulder, knee, hip, etc.) when localized relief is the goal.

We’ll help you choose the best option.

Can I combine cryotherapy with other services?

Absolutely. Cryotherapy pairs well with:

  • Physical therapy

  • Medical massage

  • Strength and conditioning

  • Infrared sauna (timing dependent)

Many clients use cryotherapy to help them tolerate movement and training more comfortably.

What should I do after a session?

We typically recommend:

  • Hydrating well

  • Light movement

  • Paying attention to how your body responds

We’ll also suggest whether pairing with another service makes sense for your goals.

Is cryotherapy covered by insurance?

Cryotherapy is considered a wellness and recovery service and is not typically covered by insurance. Packages and memberships are available.

How do I know if cryotherapy is right for me?

If you’re unsure, just ask. Our team will help you decide whether cryotherapy fits your goals—or guide you toward a better option within your care plan.

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Hours

Monday       Massage Only

Tuesday        9 AM - 5:30 PM

Wednesday 9 AM - 1:00 PM

Thursday      9 AM - 5:30 PM

Friday            9 AM - 5:30 PM

Saturday      Massage Only (temp.) 

Sunday        Closed

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TEMP LOCATION:
145 G Street, Suite E

Arcata CA 95521

 

Closed for Renovations

860 G Street

Arcata, CA 95521

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145 G Street, Suite E

Arcata, CA 95521

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