Mobile equine cryotherapy sessions available in Central Iowa. America Cryo SubZero device.

Photo by Ally Pflughaupt Photography

Targeted Equine Cryotherapy for Recovery, Pain, & Inflammation

Cryotherapy is the use of cold to influence tissues and the body's response to inflammation and discomfort. Unlike traditional ice packs or ice boots the America Cryo SubZero device delivers controlled, targeted cold directly to the area.


The SubZero uses pressurized CO2 and can deliver between -22F to -76F. By using the SubZero we are able to focus on a targeted area rather than cooling the entire limb or body.

Potential benefits for horses include:

  • recovery after exercise
  • manage localized inflammation
  • reduce discomfort
  • supports recovery from soft-tissue stress
  • non-invasive and requires no downtime


Pain relief is useful, but it is not proof that an injury has healed.

Some horses and people show an immediate change in comfort or mobility. How long that change lasts can vary. Acute concerns may require several closely spaced sessions while chronic concerns often use an initial series followed by maintenance. Cryotherapy supports symptom management and recovery, but does NOT diagnose an injury or correct an underlying disease.

Pain relief is useful, but it is not proof that an injury has healed.

Some horses and people show an immediate change in comfort or mobility. How long that change lasts can vary. Acute concerns may require several closely spaced sessions while chronic concerns often use an initial series followed by maintenance. Cryotherapy supports symptom management and recovery, but does NOT diagnose an injury or correct an underlying disease.

The Physiological Sequence

  1. Cold receptors detect rapid temperature change
  2. Local blood vessels temporarily constrict
  3. Nerve signaling and local metabolic demand increase
  4. Area begins to rewarm after sessions and circulation returns

Traditional Cold Therapy:

  • ice packs/boots
  • broad lower-limb coverage
  • longer contact time
  • requires physical contact
  • gradual cooling
  • temperature is less precisely controlled

SubZero

  • Targeted CO2 application
  • localized application
  • brief, dry application
  • non-contact application
  • rapid surface cooling
  • temperature and distance sensors

What does a session look like?

  1. Assessment
  2. We discuss horse's workload, history, current concerns, and session goals.
  3. Targeted Session
  4. Safe space to work in
  5. SubZero positioned over area and applied for appropriate amount of time.
  6. Observation
  7. Horse's response is monitored throughout the session
  8. Aftercare
  9. We discuss any observations and recommendations for continued support or follow-up
Mobile equine cryotherapy in Central Iowa. Utilizing the America Cryo SubZero handheld device. Certified in 2023

Photo by Ally Pflughaupt Photography