Ice pack machine for hip surgery

Cold therapy is a time-tested method for obtaining relief from pain, especially when you are injured, strain a muscle, or are recovering from surgery. This technique is part of the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) method for healing and is widely used across the world. One of the common ways to utilize cold therapy is with an ice pack held in place with an elastic bandage. 

Advances in technology have made it easier to apply cold therapy when you need it. Cold therapy machines work by circulating water through an ice reservoir. The reservoir connects to a wrap that provides the element of compression, which may help reduce swelling. With a cold therapy unit, you get the combined benefits of therapeutic cold and targeted pressure to aid in your healing.

Cold therapy machines may be recommended by physicians, athletic trainers and physical therapists alike for one of many reasons including:

More Efficient than Ice 

The combination of compression and cold has been clinically proven to be more effective than ice therapy alone.1 Cold alleviates pain and reduces swelling by restricting blood flow to the area, and compression also reduces swelling and allows the therapeutic cold to penetrate deeper and last longer. 

Convenience and Portability 

Applying ice packs can be a hassle, especially for areas such as your knee or shoulder. It is also difficult to control the temperature of an ice pack, and the ice may melt quickly. With a cold therapy unit, you get consistent temperature throughout each session because cold water is circulated throughout the machine. These machines are also often portable, so they can be used at home. 

Less Pain Medication 

Cold therapy units decrease pain by numbing nerve endings in your body. This slows down communication between your body and your brain, resulting in less pain. Using a cold therapy machine may help you rely less on medication as you recover from surgery or an injury.2  

Ice pack machine for hip surgery

Ice pack machine for hip surgery

About Cold Therapy Units

Before investing in a cold therapy machine, there are a few factors to consider. Depending on your healthcare plan, a machine may not be covered by insurance. However, there are rental programs to help you get the benefits of integrated cold and compression therapy.

It is advised to speak with your doctor or healthcare professional before starting cold compression therapy and follow their recommendations for treatment. Because cold therapy machines stay colder for longer spans of time, it’s important to use them as directed. 

Get Back to What Matters With Game Ready

If you're a patient or athlete who wants to get back to normal as soon as possible after an injury or surgery, the Game Ready® system may help speed up your recovery. Our cold therapy machines feature an advanced control unit and anatomically designed wraps that conform to your body for your comfort. 

Download our Patient Cryotherapy Brochure for more information about the Game Ready® system and how it can help in your recovery. 

Ice pack machine for hip surgery

Endnotes

  1. Waterman B, Walker JJ, Swains C, Shortt M, Todd MS, Machen SM, Owens BD. The efficacy of combined cryotherapy compression compared with cryotherapy alone  following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The Journal of Knee Surgery. 2012; 25, (02):155-160. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22928433. Accessed April 7, 2021.
  2. Block J. Cold and compression in the management of musculoskeletal injuries and orthopedic operative procedures: a narrative review. Open Access J Sports Med. 2010:105-113. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3781860. Accessed April 7, 2021

How much does a cold therapy machine cost?

A cold therapy machine is a much larger investment than a simple ice pack. So, is a cold therapy unit worth the price? Absolutely! While a cold therapy unit can range in cost between $100 - $500 or more, they are absolutely worth the investment.

Is cryotherapy good after hip surgery?

Compressive cryotherapy (CC) has been shown to reduce pain after knee and hip replacement surgery.

What are the benefits of cryotherapy for a total hip arthroscopy?

Completing a cycle of Cryotherapy sessions can have multiple benefits in accelerating the body's natural healing process and ease pain and bruising following surgery and injury. Cryotherapy may reduce swelling, and promote an anti-inflammatory function in the body's healing blueprint.

What is a post surgery ice machine?

Cold therapy machines work by circulating water through an ice reservoir. The reservoir connects to a wrap that provides the element of compression, which may help reduce swelling. With a cold therapy unit, you get the combined benefits of therapeutic cold and targeted pressure to aid in your healing.