The short answer
Cryoultrasound combines local cooling and therapeutic ultrasound in one system. Each function needs its own assessment; their combination is not automatically better for every condition.
Two physical applications in one system
Cryoultrasound combines cold and ultrasound in the same treatment. It differs from a cold compress and from a separate ultrasound device without integrated cooling.
The treatment plan should explain why both functions are used. An extra feature does not prove that the combination is better for your condition than a single technique or other care.
CrioSix from Sixtus Italia
The manufacturer describes CrioSix with two treatment heads capable of cooling to −8 °C and ultrasound at 1 and 3 MHz. It offers manual operation and preset programmes.
−8 °C refers to the stated capability of the treatment head. Do not use it as a recommended skin temperature or an independent treatment setting.
Request current instructions, temperature-control details, heads and training for the offered configuration.
How it differs from ultrasound and ordinary cooling
Start with the purpose of each function. Cooling applies cold; ultrasound delivers a mechanical sound wave. Cryoultrasound combines both in a system.
Compare more than the skin sensation. Ask which outcome the combination should change and how that change will be judged relevant. Read the ultrasound guide.
Read research within its scope
A randomised study compared cryoultrasound with shockwave treatment for chronic lateral epicondylitis, commonly called tennis elbow. It studied a specific diagnosis and protocol; it does not prove that CrioSix is better for every acute sports injury.
Consider the patient group, devices, other care and measured outcomes. Discuss which part of the evidence applies to the proposal you receive.
Cold needs a separate assessment
Report cold sensitivity and circulation or sensation problems. The clinician must assess the suitability of both cooling and ultrasound. Combining them does not remove either technique’s precautions.
Do not stop prescribed care because cooling feels more comfortable. Agree how to report unusual reactions and when treatment will be reviewed.
For patients and practice owners
Patients should ask about diagnosis, goals and review. A practice must also consider cleaning, contact-surface checks, user instruction and maintenance for both functions.
Use the selection checklist to assess a demonstration and check which consumables the manufacturer requires.
Frequently asked questions
Is cryoultrasound simply an ice pack?
No. It combines local cooling and therapeutic ultrasound in a device.
What is CrioSix?
CrioSix is the Sixtus Italia system combining cryotherapy and ultrasound therapy.
Does −8 °C mean my skin should reach that temperature?
No. It describes a treatment-head capability, not a skin-temperature recommendation or an independent protocol.
Does combining the techniques remove contraindications?
No. Both cold and ultrasound need assessment for suitability and safe use.
Is the combination always better than one technique?
No general claim can be made. Assess the specific diagnosis and evidence.
What should I report before cryoultrasound?
Discuss cold sensitivity, circulation, sensation or skin problems, and relevant conditions and implants.
Sources for this page
Technical sources consulted on 2 October 2026; contacts checked on 3 October 2026. Manufacturer data describes technology and equipment; clinical sources address defined questions.
- Manufacturer · technologySixtus Italia — Cryoultrasound ↗
- Manufacturer · deviceSixtus Italia — CrioSix ↗
- Research · specific patient groupVulpiani et al. (2015) — shockwave versus cryoultrasound for tennis elbow ↗