Cold Therapy Systems commonly are used following orthopedic surgery to reduce pain and minimize swelling. The devices resemble ice chests and utilize tubes to circulate cold water to the affected body part.
The devices often are recommended by the surgeons and are intended to be operated by the patient at home. Patients commonly are provided with little or no instruction on proper use of the Cold Therapy system.
The Cold Therapy devices lack a shut-off alarm mechanism or alarm to alert patients of overuse. The result is that some patients use the devices for extended periods which can result in permanent injuries.
People have developed nerve damage and serious skin conditions from use of the devices. Nerve damage can result in extreme pain and can be confirmed with an electromyogram (EMG).
Cold Therapy Systems are manufactured by the following companies:
- DonJoy Iceman
- BREG Polar Care
- EB Ice
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