THE SCIENCE BEHIND ECB COLD SPAS

TEMPERATURE

The ECB Spa solution can be chilled as low as 35 °F (2 °C), although research suggests the optimum temperature to be 46°F (8°C) to take out heat and inflammation. At this temperature, the solution provides analgesic pain management, inhibits enzyme degeneration of tendons post injury and massively increases circulation.

SALT CONCENTRATION

The ECB ice bath salt solution acts as a hypertonic poultice, reducing heat while having a natural healing effect on wounds. Water density increases with salt concentration, which in turn increases pressure to aid fluid and waste dispersal. The ice bath has a high level of both Epsom Salts (MgSO4) and ordinary Salt (NaCl). Salt water has been known to be therapeutic for years, people used to be sent to the seaside for a wide range of ailments, from open wounds, to arthritis.

AERATION

Water aeration has a massaging effect on the leg and increases the dissolved oxygen content of the ice bath solution. The fact that the water is continuously moving also means that the contact surface is also constantly changing. Sports men and women that have used traditional ice baths have said that if they sit still they find that it feels warmer. This is because the body is warming the water around them. Not so when the water is aerated.

DEPTH

The depth of the water is proportionate to the pressure exerted on the leg which aids fluid and waste dispersal. Water depth is adjustable dependent upon the position and severity of injury. The deeper the water the more pressure is exerted and therefore an increased massage effect.

BIOLOGICAL CONCENTRATION

Proper chemical and salt maintenance allows for thousands of successive treatments without water replacement. Temperature and chemical levels combine to eliminate the transfer of microbiological infection.

DISSOLVED OXYGEN

As water temperature decreases, its ability to carry oxygen increases. Increased oxygenation through the introduction of aeration is believed to enhance natural defense systems, much like the use of a hyperbaric chamber for humans.