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 utilise 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.
Cold therapy machines may be recommended by physicians, athletic trainers and physical therapists alike for one of many reasons.
Benefits of Cold Therapy Machines
More Efficient Than Ice
The combination of compression and cold has been clinically proven to be more effective than ice therapy alone. 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.
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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.
Here's a summary of the benefits in a table:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Efficiency | Combination of cold and compression is more effective than ice alone. |
| Convenience | Consistent temperature and portability for home use. |
| Pain Reduction | Numbing nerve endings to decrease pain. |
Important Considerations
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, BMEC provides the Game Ready rental program to help you get the benefits of integrated cold and compression therapy.
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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.
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.
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