By Ellen Bouchard • Photos by Jessica McCafferty
Most people want to achieve better health, and for many people the path to becoming healthier can include traditional and alternative medicine, exercise and healthy eating habits. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services’ National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, non-traditional or non-mainstream approaches to healthcare can be complementary – used in conjunction with conventional medicine – or alternative – in place of conventional medicine. We are fortunate to live in a region where both traditional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine are readily available.
Recent additions to the offerings of alternative modalities available in our region are Red Light Therapy and Cryoskin.
Fire
Red Light Therapy has been around for more than fifty years and used at NASA to help the Astronauts heal in space. “Mitochondria healing with PhotoBioModulation is like jump-starting a dead car battery. It improves the function of the mitochondria within the cell that increases ATP production, which is an energy source used by cells,” explained Chad Hunkins, owner of StoneWorks Massage and Skincare. “This leads to an anti-inflammatory effect and improved energy for metabolism. More energy means other cells can do their work more efficiently.”
There is increasing evidence demonstrating cosmetic and medical advantages to this therapy, including rejuvenating brain health/brain injury, accelerating recovery such as muscle recovery from exercise, wound healing/repairing acne/scarring, improving psoriasis and eczema, reducing inflammation to help with acute/chronic pain, increasing collagen production and anti-aging by reducing cellulite formation and fat reduction, even hair regrowth. There are several different treatment methods to access these benefits.
Delivering red light therapy can happen in different ways. Hunkins shared, “It took us a long time to figure out which Red Light company to use. We went with the Prism Light Pad because it is ‘whole body.’ We love that this is the only red light you can lay on which gives you that 360 [experience].” Treatments last for thirty minutes. Red Light does not penetrate through clothing, and areas of focus must be uncovered. The privacy of the red light therapy room allows for complete comfort of the client. “The light actually penetrates through the skin and gets to the cells. It’s like a warm hug,” he added. Depending on your medical or cosmetic issue, or if you are using it post-workouts for muscle pain and rejuvenation, a treatment plan can be developed for monthly, weekly or several times a week.
“Our staff are trained in the Red Light Therapy and the delivery system we use is preset and automatic. The mats are easy to move and sterilized between sessions,” said Hunkins.
More Fire
“People want to look and feel their very best. We are constantly finding different modalities to help our community members manage chronic pain, heal from injury, soothe from training, and improve the care of their entire body and mind,” shared Dena Archer, owner of Archer Body Works. Archer uses Ideal Light technology offering individual, multi-sized pads positioned across the entire body or solely on the parts you wish to treat. LipoMelt, a body-contouring device, delivers a combination of heat and vibration to target areas such as the stomach, thighs and arms.
Archer also offers an Infrared Sauna often used in conjunction with the Red Light Therapy. This helps with detoxification for a complete mind and body experience. She chose the infrared sauna, Heavenly Heat, as it works well in conjunction with the Red Light treatment. Choosing this specific model, not only because of the infrared capabilities, but because it uses no wood glue, no varnish and no stains, so you have the healthiest experience possible.
Archer shared, “Enhancing our customer experience and providing options to help our clients is our goal. Red Light, LipoMelt and our Infrared sauna are three great complements to our other services.”
Ice
Archer Body Works has also adopted Cryoskin Therapy, a non-invasive slimming and body-contouring device. Cryoskin claims to decrease the appearance of cellulite, cause fat loss and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Cryoskin Slimming and Toning uses, “cold massage to smooth, lift and firm skin, reducing the appearance of imperfections and improving the skin’s overall texture”.
The treatment is administered using a hand held medical device applying cold temperatures to increase blood flow and oxygen to a specific area of concern. The technician uses a specialized gel and massages the designated area to tone, firm or add smoothness. Cryoskin is a favorable option to invasive surgeries like liposuction; it is unlikely to cause side effects in most individuals.
Archer recounted how one client experienced the loss of up to an inch off her waistline after just one treatment. Archer promotes, “… but for substantial results a healthy lifestyle along with the Cryoskin treatment will make the results longer lasting.”
The Power of Healing
The effects of Red Light and Cryoskin therapy can last for days or even longer with regular visits. Many people with scarring have seen a result that lasts long term and some with ailments like Fibromyalgia or Rheumatoid Arthritis or other chronic conditions may need numerous sessions to see optimal results. Even after one 30-minute session most feel rejuvenated. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and incorporating regular sessions, people can experience health benefits in the long term. You should always consult your physician or dermatologist before any kind of treatment, especially if you have an underlying health condition.
Both Red Light and Cryoskin Therapy have a demonstrated scientific history. Although neither treatment boasts FDA approval, the overwhelming experiential evidence of health benefits with limited side effects is a common thread for many non-traditional or alternative health therapies.
StoneWorks Massage & Skincare
179 Tom Miller Road
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
518 310-0172
Archer Body Works
44 Broad Street
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
518 562-2233