Cold immersion therapy for PC?

[7OaksTom]

Has anyone had experience with using cold immersion, either ice baths or cold showers, to support recovery and treatment side effects?

[spw1]

When first diagnosed with mets, my husband tried this when we were still in Canada. After watching the ice man, he started with cold showers. Eventually he would walk the dog in the snow in minus whatever temperature wearing a cotton short sleeved tee and shorts. He did wear socks and boots. It was invigorating. At that time, the cancer was also responding to the ADT so would not know whether it helped to fight the cancer itself. The neighbours were vey impressed.

[LongevityAT]

I take cold showers daily and an ice bath weekly but was doing so for years before my PC diagnosis. Dr Kishan at UCLA said there was no issue with my taking cold showers during treatment but I don't recall him commenting on cold showers or ice bath as a recovery therapy.

The benefits of cold immersion are numerous and stand alone. If nothing else, getting into an ice bath is like lifting weights for your cardiovascular system, which in itself would contribute to recovery and healing.

There is much literature on the benefits of cold immersion, but like any medical advice, don't take it from me, a random guy on the internet, but talk to your doctor and do your research. There are risks with cold immersion if you have heart issues, so in that case check with your cardiologist (mine was OK with it).

I teach the Wim Hof Method and in my class we get into an ice bath. If you have any questions feel free to PM me.

[j-o-h-n]

With the compliments from cousin Ai.....

Cold immersion, to support recovery and Prostate cancer treatment side effects?

ChatGPT

Cold immersion therapy, also known as cold water immersion or cryotherapy, involves immersing the body or specific body parts in cold water for a short duration. While cold immersion therapy has been studied for its potential benefits in various contexts, including sports recovery and certain medical conditions, its effectiveness for supporting recovery and managing side effects of prostate cancer treatment is less well-established.

Here are some considerations regarding cold immersion therapy in the context of prostate cancer treatment:

Pain and Inflammation: Cold therapy may help reduce pain and inflammation in the body, which could be beneficial for managing side effects such as muscle aches and joint pain associated with prostate cancer treatments like chemotherapy or hormone therapy.

Fatigue: Some individuals undergoing prostate cancer treatment may experience fatigue as a side effect. While cold immersion therapy may help improve energy levels and alertness in some people, the evidence for its effectiveness in managing cancer-related fatigue is limited.

Immune Function: Cold exposure has been shown to stimulate the immune system and increase the production of certain immune cells. While this could potentially be beneficial for supporting immune function during cancer treatment, more research is needed to understand the specific effects of cold immersion therapy on cancer-related immune dysfunction.

Circulation: Cold immersion therapy can cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), followed by vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) upon rewarming. This may help improve circulation and blood flow, which could potentially aid in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues affected by cancer treatment.

Individual Variability: It's important to recognize that individual responses to cold immersion therapy can vary widely. While some people may find it helpful for managing side effects or enhancing recovery, others may not tolerate cold exposure well or may experience adverse effects.

Before incorporating cold immersion therapy into your prostate cancer treatment regimen or recovery plan, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical history, treatment plan, and individual needs. Additionally, they can help ensure that any complementary therapies you choose to pursue are safe and appropriate in the context of your cancer care.

Brrrrrrrrrrrr

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n

[Boywonder56 in reply to j-o-h-n]

does eating ice cream count🤪

[j-o-h-n in reply to Boywonder56]

Sure, as long as you don't swallow it.....

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n