A recent cryotherapy session in Paris has taken a devastating turn, with one woman dead and another critically injured due to a nitrogen leak from a cryochamber.
The incident has shocked many and raised concerns about the safety of the treatment.
The Incident Unfolds
The tragedy occurred on Monday evening around 6:20 pm at a sports centre in Paris’s 11th district.
Reports suggest the On Air facility, located on Voltaire Boulevard, was the site of the incident.
French investigators have confirmed that the likely cause of the disaster was a nitrogen leak from the cold chamber, which resulted in poisoning.
Tragically, an employee in her late 20s lost her life, while a client in her 30s was rushed to Lariboisière Hospital in critical condition.
The Paris public prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the cause of death, including an autopsy and toxicology tests.
Immediate Aftermath
Following the leak, three other individuals who had been in contact with the victims and provided first aid were also treated for exposure.
At the time of the incident, the gym was full, with around 150 people present.
The facility was quickly evacuated, and authorities set up screens to shield the ongoing situation from public view.
On Air has expressed its sorrow over the incident and closed its doors on Tuesday, offering apologies to all affected.
The gym, which promotes cryotherapy for benefits such as pain relief and muscle recovery, has vowed to cooperate fully with the investigation.
Understanding Cryotherapy and Its Risks
Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to temperatures as low as -100°C for a brief period, typically no longer than three minutes.
This practice is touted for its potential health benefits, including alleviating muscle soreness and improving circulation.
It’s a popular treatment among athletes and celebrities, offering an alternative to traditional ice baths.
However, experts have raised concerns about the medical efficacy of cryotherapy, noting that the long-term effects remain uncertain.
Despite its growing popularity, there have been previous instances of fatal accidents linked to cryotherapy, such as a similar case in Las Vegas in 2015, where a woman tragically died after entering a cold chamber outside of business hours.
Reactions and Concerns
Local officials have expressed their grief over the incident, with François Vauglin, the Socialist mayor of the 11th arrondissement, calling it “a stupid accident with terrible consequences.”
He described it as an “infinitely sad” situation, emphasizing the dangers of underestimating the risks associated with such treatments.
In response to the incident, some individuals, like Diego Brisset, have voiced concerns, stating that they had always been warned about the potential dangers of cryotherapy.
This tragic event has ignited further debate about the safety and regulation of cryotherapy sessions.
As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of caution when engaging in experimental and high-risk wellness treatments.
