Cold plunging in cancer survivorship

Kate Mederer explains the benefits of cold plunging in cancer survivorship. 

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Cold plunging, also known as cold water immersion or therapy, has seen a resurgence in wellness for its wide range of physical and psychological benefits. The practice involves submerging the body in water temperatures typically between 5 to 15°C for a short period. Though it may seem like a recent wellness trend, cold water therapy has ancient roots and offers potential benefits beyond general health and recovery, especially for cancer survivors.

Origins of cold plunging

Cold water therapy dates back to ancient civilisations. The Greeks and Romans, known for their elaborate bathhouses, incorporated cold baths into their routines to promote healing and rejuvenation. The practice is also rooted in Scandinavian culture, where alternating between saunas and icy lakes has been a long-standing tradition. 

These societies believed cold water immersion could stimulate circulation, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall vitality. More recently, growing scientific evidence has supported the benefits of cold plunging. Athletes have used it for muscle recovery, and there is increasing recognition of its potential to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and improve mental resilience.

General benefits of cold plunging

Cold plunging offers several physical and psychological advantages that can benefit anyone, regardless of age or health condition. These include:

• Reduced inflammation and pain: Cold immersion constricts blood vessels, which helps reduce inflammation and can alleviate chronic pain, particularly in joints and muscles.
• Improved circulation: Exposure to cold water causes blood vessels to tighten and then dilate upon rewarming, promoting better circulation. This can aid in recovery from injury and support overall cardiovascular health.
• Boosted immune function: Regular cold plunging has been linked to an increase in white blood cell count, which enhances the immune system’s ability to fend off illnesses.
• Stress relief and enhanced mood: Cold plunging stimulates the production of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that can boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The endorphin rush post-plunge is often described as an immediate mood lifter.

Cold plunging and cancer survivorship

Cold plunging presents unique benefits for cancer patients and survivors that may complement conventional treatment and recovery processes. While it’s not a cure or replacement for medical treatments, cold water immersion can offer relief from some of the side effects associated with cancer and its treatments, such as chemotherapy.

• Pain management: Joint and muscle pain is a common side effect of cancer treatments, especially chemotherapy. Cold plunging can help alleviate this discomfort by reducing inflammation and providing temporary relief from pain.

• Improved sleep and fatigue reduction: Cancer survivors often struggle with fatigue and insomnia. Cold immersion has been found to improve sleep quality by regulating body temperature and reducing muscle tension, which may contribute to overall energy restoration.

• Mental resilience and emotional well-being: The emotional toll of cancer treatment can be overwhelming. Cold plunging activates the body’s natural stress response systems, encouraging a sense of mental resilience and well-being. The practice also creates a sense of accomplishment, which can empower survivors during their recovery journey.

• Enhanced circulation and lymphatic function: Maintaining good circulation is essential for recovery for those undergoing cancer treatment. Cold plunging can stimulate lymphatic circulation, which helps the body remove toxins more efficiently.

While further research is needed to fully understand the role of cold water therapy in cancer recovery, its potential benefits offer hope and support for those on their survivorship journey. 

Always consult your treating doctor before incorporating new therapies or practices into your health regimen. 

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A testimonial of hope and relief

Sarah*, a 42-year-old cancer survivor, shares how cold plunging has become an integral part of her post-treatment recovery. “After chemotherapy, I struggled with severe joint pain and fatigue. My oncologist recommended I try contrast therapy (sauna and cold plunging), and though I was sceptical at first, the results were almost immediate. It’s not a cure but has significantly improved my joint pain and energy levels. I feel more in control of my body, improving my overall quality of life.”  *Name changed for privacy.

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