Whole Body Cryotherapy & ADHD: A Case Study

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often associated with difficulties in focus, mood regulation, and energy levels. Many individuals with ADHD struggle with maintaining alertness throughout the day, experiencing energy crashes, and difficulty winding down for sleep. As alternative therapies gain traction, whole body cryotherapy (WBC) is emerging as a potential aid in managing these symptoms.

To explore the effects of WBC on ADHD, we conducted a case study with a client who underwent five consecutive days of treatment in our whole-body cryotherapy chamber. She documented her experience in a daily diary, providing valuable insights into how the therapy affected her mood, energy levels, concentration, and sleep.

Day 1: Immediate Energy Boost & Mood Elevation

After the first session (3 minutes 15 seconds), the client noted an immediate sense of alertness and elevated mood. She even reported clearer vision on her drive home. The benefits lasted for several hours, with energy levels dipping slightly in the afternoon but not in an extreme way. Despite being close to her menstrual cycle—a time when sleep is usually difficult—she was able to fall asleep with ease.

Mild side effects: A slight headache and mild abdominal pain, possibly related to detoxification.

Day 2: Improved Concentration & Sleep Quality

By the second session, the client felt more prepared and comfortable, breathing naturally through the treatment. While the initial mood boost was less dramatic than on Day 1, her concentration levels remained high, and energy dips were delayed until later in the day. She also reported drinking more water to mitigate the mild headache she experienced.

One major improvement was her ability to fall asleep and stay asleep without the use of melatonin, which she had previously relied on. Additionally, she woke up without her usual aches from side sleeping.

Mild side effects: A mild headache and mild abdominal discomfort.

Day 3: Elevated Mood & Dopamine Regulation

By the third session, the client felt even more at ease in the chamber. She extended the session by 15 seconds and had her daughter and partner present, which made the experience enjoyable.

The most significant benefit was the increase in mood and motivation. ADHD is linked to dopamine deficiency, which impacts overall happiness and focus. However, she felt a strong sense of well-being that lasted beyond the immediate post-session period. Notably, she also remained energized well into the evening, which was unusual for her.

No side effects reported.

Day 4: Mental Clarity & Physical Relaxation

During this session, the client found the last 30 seconds particularly challenging, but having a supportive partner present helped. She experienced an improved ability to focus, with significantly reduced mental “noise.”

A surprising benefit was the reduction in muscle tightness—she was able to sit cross-legged on the floor without discomfort, which she previously struggled with. Additionally, she noted a more natural winding down in the evening, without extreme energy dips. Sleep continued to improve, with a reduction in the time it took to fall asleep.

No side effects reported.

Day 5: Stress Reduction & Physical Healing

On the final day, the client observed sustained energy levels with no noticeable energy slumps. One of the biggest takeaways was how her stress levels had diminished. As a single mother with ADHD, she often found evenings particularly challenging. However, she felt more balanced and less fatigued, which made parenting at the end of the day easier.

She also reported a significant reduction in musculoskeletal pain, particularly in her neck, back, and shoulders. Chronic issues such as pins and needles in her legs and arms—likely due to disc compression—had disappeared, suggesting that cryotherapy may have contributed to inflammation reduction and enhanced circulation.

No side effects reported.

Overall Findings & Takeaways

The client entered the study with no prior experience or expectations regarding whole-body cryotherapy. Despite external stressors, including hormonal fluctuations and personal challenges, she observed significant benefits, including:

  • Improved mood and motivation: A noticeable elevation in happiness, likely linked to dopamine regulation.
  • Sustained energy levels: Reduced afternoon crashes and a more even distribution of energy throughout the day.
  • Enhanced focus and concentration: Less mental noise and improved ability to stay on task.
  • Better sleep quality: Faster sleep onset and uninterrupted sleep without the need for melatonin.
  • Reduced physical pain: Decreased muscle tension and inflammation, leading to improved mobility.
  • Lower stress levels: A calmer, more balanced demeanor, making daily responsibilities more manageable.

Whole Body Cryotherapy: The Ultimate Cold Exposure Therapy

Cold exposure has long been known to provide numerous health benefits, particularly for individuals with ADHD, by improving focus, mood, and energy levels. While there are various ways to experience cold therapy—such as ice baths or cold showers—whole body cryotherapy offers the most advanced, efficient, and comfortable method available.

WBC exposes the entire body to ultra-cold temperatures in a controlled environment, ensuring deeper physiological responses without the discomfort of prolonged cold water immersion. Unlike ice baths, which can be challenging to endure and require longer exposure, cryotherapy sessions are brief yet highly effective. The rapid cooling stimulates circulation, reduces inflammation, and enhances mental clarity—all of which contribute to better ADHD symptom management.

For those looking for a fast and effective way to harness the power of cold exposure, whole body cryotherapy is the optimal solution. If you’re curious about how cryotherapy can benefit you, get in touch with the SOMA HOUSE team today to book a session!