We all remember sustaining a fall, bruise, or injury growing up, and everyone’s first recommendation was, “Put some ice on it.” Injuries could range from a jammed finger, twisted ankle, or even situations requiring medical assistance. But among all these situations, something remained the same, the intrinsic thought to use something cold, whether that be ice or even frozen peas to help soothe the pain. While we may not have noticed it then, or even now, this is a common practice known as Ice Therapy.
What is Ice Therapy?
Ice Therapy or Cryotherapy is the application of compression and cold temperatures to the affected area of the body to reduce pain, swelling, and recovery time. This practice is typically used for post-op care following surgeries, sports injuries, and/or soft tissue issues.
Types of Ice Therapy
There are numerous types and methods of ice therapy. Some treatment centers are built upon this practice, offering upscale, state-of-the-art machinery to apply extreme temperatures to your entire body. For example, gyms and rehabilitation centers may utilize machines and compression tools to localize this treatment to specific parts of the body. However, the most common and easiest application of this therapy can occur within your own home through two primary methods: DIY and ice compression machines.
Ice Packs & Cold Compresses
The first and most cost-effective method of ice therapy is the DIY, at-home remedies, most commonly associated with ice packs and cold compresses. You can readily create your ice pack by placing ice into a zip lock baggie and wrapping it with a washcloth or paper towel. On the other hand, for a reusable method, you can purchase various gel packs/compresses at most retail stores.
Ice Compression Machine
The other method for utilizing ice therapy at home is through an ice compression machine. These machines are designed for injury care and offer the best solution to at-home ice therapy. These machines circulate water through an ice reservoir, providing constant cold air through a funnel to the applied compression pad. While more costly than the previous at-home remedies, this style of care offers the best solution as it provides constant ice compression to a greater area of the body.
What Are the Benefits of Ice Therapy?
Managing Pain & Swelling After Knee Surgery
The application of ice therapy has numerous benefits to it, especially in post-op care with TKR and PKR. Through its use, individuals can experience decreased pain and inflammation while preventing swelling and improving circulation in their knees. Once applied, the cold temperatures stimulate the nerve endings in your body, minimizing the pain signals sent to the brain.
After TKR and PKR operations, it is common for the knee to become inflamed and swell. This is due to a buildup of fluid in this area, causing the physical reactions. However, when ice therapy is properly used, the cold temperature constricts blood vessels, thus limiting the flow of fluid to the area. This not only decreases inflammation in the surrounding area but prevents further swelling from occurring.
Safety Precautions
When performing post-op care following knee surgery, safety, and proper procedure is paramount to not only a smooth recovery but a safe one as well. Regardless of the ice therapy or compression techniques you use, we always recommend consulting with your doctor to ensure such practices align with proper precautions. When performing ice therapy, there are two general rules to follow that align with time and exposure.
When applying cold temperature to the body, a typical rule of thumb is the 20 on 20 off method. It's advised that you should not apply ice/any cold object for more than 20 minutes at a time. Furthermore, it's recommended you wait 20-30 minutes before reapplying. It is best to clear this with your doctor regarding both ice exposure time and compression longevity to ensure you are helping yourself and not potentially hurting.
Another guideline to follow when using ice therapy is to never apply your cold object directly to your skin, as direct and prolonged exposure can cause skin irritation. Preventative measures include using a thin towel or washcloth as a protective barrier between the skin and the ice.
Incorporating NeeHab Devices During Recovery
Once you begin the recovery process after knee surgery, NeeHab is the optimum device for rehabilitation at home, strengthening extension and flexion of the knee. It is important to incorporate healthy and safe recovery and rehabilitation to ensure the best post-cop care. Learn more about how NeeHab can help today.
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