Cryotherapy Session in Paris Turns Fatal Due to Nitrogen Leak
Paris, France – A fatal incident occurred during a cryotherapy session in Paris as a nitrogen leak from a cryochamber led to the death of one woman and the critical hospitalization of another, French investigators have reported. The incident highlights the potential risks associated with cryotherapy treatments and the importance of safety protocols in cryochambers.
Tragic Incident at Sports Facility
The unfortunate event unfolded at approximately 6:20 p.m. on Monday at a small sports center situated in the 11th arrondissement of the French capital, according to police sources. The facility is identified as the On Air establishment, located on Voltaire Boulevard.
Preliminary findings suggest that a nitrogen escape from the cryochamber is suspected to be the cause of the toxic exposure, stated a source familiar with the investigation. An employee of the fitness center, reported to be in her late 20s, tragically died as a result of the incident.
A female client of the establishment, in her 30s, was admitted to Lariboisière Hospital, in the city’s 10th arrondissement, and is currently in critical condition.
Investigation Launched into Cause of Death
“An inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death has been initiated,” announced the Paris public prosecutor’s office.
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Law enforcement sources indicated that three individuals who were in contact with the affected women and administered initial first aid also received medical attention.
The sports club, which had 150 people present at the time of the incident, was promptly evacuated.
Eyewitness accounts mention a body covered with a white sheet being removed from the sports center premises.
Cryotherapy Chamber Malfunction Suspected
Screens were erected to obscure the scene in front of the gym’s entrance and along the sidewalk, indicating the severity and sensitivity of the situation.
The Paris prosecutor’s office communicated on Monday evening, “An autopsy and toxicological examinations have been mandated to ascertain the precise cause of death, which is believed to have transpired during a cryotherapy procedure.”
On Air announced that it would remain closed on Tuesday following the incident and conveyed apologies for the occurrence.
Cryotherapy Benefits Promoted by On Air
In promotional material for cryotherapy, On Air had previously advertised several benefits, including alleviation of pain and inflammation, quicker muscle recovery, and bolstering of the immune system.
Nitrogen, an element utilized in cryotherapy, is characterized as a colorless and odorless gas.
During a typical session within a walk-in chamber, individuals are subjected to temperatures below -100° Celsius for a recommended duration not exceeding three minutes.
Advocates propose that whole body cryotherapy can effectively diminish muscle soreness, stress levels, rheumatism, and various skin conditions.
Professional athletes and celebrities have adopted whole body cryotherapy as an alternative to conventional ice packs and cold water baths.
However, numerous experts caution that the treatment lacks definitive medical validation and advocate for further scientific research to assess both short-term and long-term impacts.
Eyewitness Account and Official Reaction
Diego Brisset, 26, recounted planning to exercise at the gym but was informed of its closure on Monday evening.
He clarified that he does not engage in cryotherapy treatments.
“I was always told it was hazardous,” he commented, reflecting a general perception of risk associated with the procedure.
François Vauglin, Socialist mayor of the 11th arrondissement of Paris, remarked following the incident, “It’s a senseless accident with devastating repercussions. It is profoundly regrettable. Losing one’s life during a cryotherapy session is a tragedy. This form of treatment is not insignificant.”
Past Cryotherapy Incident in the United States
Cryotherapy faced increased scrutiny in the United States in 2015 after a woman tragically froze to death at a spa in Las Vegas.
The 24-year-old woman was believed to have entered a cold chamber at the spa after closing hours to relieve some discomfort and was discovered the following day by a colleague.
Efforts to reach On Air for comments are reportedly underway.