Back in December 2022, I broke my ankle whilst away on a skiing holiday, though,  not actually skiing!  I was told by my Consultant, I did not need surgery and would have to wear a boot for 4 weeks.  The main issue I would have is pain and swelling. To help my symptoms, I decided to have Cryotherapy 4 times per week and hyperbaric treatment 3 times a week over the next 4 weeks.  I already had another skiing holiday planned in March.  Immediately, literally stepping out of the hyperbaric chamber on my first session, I literally had no pain in my foot.  The immediate result was incredible and this just reassured me that this would assist my recovery much quicker and better.

The cryotherapy helped immediately with reducing my swelling and inflammation.  It was also great in boosting my energy levels and keeping my mood lifted when going through the rehabilitation process, as well as working.  As  a physio, the work can be both physically and mentally tiring  and yet I needed to give time and energy to do my rehab exercises.a  My patients were also really impressed that I was working with no pain and had lots of energy, as well as being able to do my Reformer Pilates everyday. 

Not only, I was able to get back to skiing 8 weeks later pain free, I also went on an 18 day trekking adventure in the Himalayas in May.  Again, I had absolutely no pain or swelling in my ankle and had full mobility.  Now I can discuss  the benefits from Cryotherapy and Hyperbaric treatment from first hand experience."

by Allison Swan, Physiotherapist at Allison Swan 5