Controlled studies suggest that WBC could have a positive influence on inflammatory mediators , antioxidant capacity , and autonomic function during sporting recovery however , these findings are preliminary . Although there is some evidence that WBC improves the perception of recovery and soreness after various sports and exercise , this does not seem to translate into enhanced functional recovery . Only one study has focused on recovery after significant musculoskeletal injury , and longterm implications are unclear . Until further research is available , athletes should remain cognizant that less expensive modes of cryotherapy , such as local icepack application or CWI , offer comparable physiological and clinical effects to WBC . That study you linked wouldn ' t endorse your statement that it works .