FAQ / Why You Should Be Using Cold Therapy
What do we mean by Cold Therapy?
By Cold Therapy we mean the application of cold by means of temperature regulated cooling pads that continuously circulate ice cold water around the desired joint or region for up to several hours at a time. (Cyrotherapy is a related term that implies the use of cold for therapeutic effect.)
Why should I choose Cold Therapy?
Two of the most unpleasant side effects of surgery are pain and swelling. These conditions affect the healing process and can lead to longer rehabilitation times. Cold therapy is widely recognized as one of the most effective non-invasive treatment methods to combat these issues. By using cold therapy you are taking an important step in speeding up the recovery process.
How does Cold therapy work?
Cold therapy is effective for a variety of reasons. First, it decreases fluid build up (swelling) in the injured body part. Second, it slows the release of chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. Third, the application of cold decreases pain by reducing the ability of the nerve endings to conduct impulses. Lastly, it aids in pain relief by reducing muscle spasms. Because of these benefits, cold therapy is generally prescribed immediately post-op and the benefits carry throughout the duration of your rehabilitation.
How is a the Breg Kodiak Cold Therapy System different from ice, gel packs or a bag of frozen vegetables?
Ice, gel packs and frozen vegetables generally administer intense cold over a small superficial area and only sustain cold temperatures for a short period of time, requiring frequent replacement trips to the freezer. The intense low temperatures of these options can also cause ice burn to sensitive skin, incision sites and areas that have compromised blood flow.
The Kodiak Cold Therapy Unit delivers continuous moderated cold water through joint specific cooling pads. These pads are clinically optimized to function at safe temperatures for prolonged periods of time allowing for cold to deeply penetrate the application area. The Kodiak Cold Therapy Unit will typically maintain its cold between 6-8 hours between ice changes.
What are some key features that make the Kodiak Cold Therapy Unit superior for cold therapy?
Key features of the Kodiak Cold Therapy Unit:
Intelli-flo pad technology: Each part of the body requires a different temperature to optimally and safely provide cold penetration. For example, a shoulder has more surrounding tissue and muscle with warm blood circulating through it requiring a slightly lower temperature to cool it compared to a knee joint that has relatively little surrounding tissue. With Breg’s Intelli-flo technology each Kodiak pad is calibrated to a specific temperature range for that joint or body part, ensuring that you receive effective control of your swelling and pain while avoiding the potential dangers of overcooling/freezing tissues as with ice or ice packs.
Simple set-up: Simply fill with ice and water; apply the pad; plug in and start your cold therapy. There are no dials, switches or confusing vague settings. The Kodiak system will quietly run at the Intelli-flo pad's clinically optimized and safe temperature for up to 6-8 hours before ice needs to be added.
Optional battery pack: Have a long trip home? Would you prefer to use cold therapy some place away from an electrical outlet? The optional battery pack for the Kodiak Cold Therapy System allows you to use cold therapy anywhere for up to 10 hours.
Quiet operation: The Kodiak Unit runs quietly so that you can rest or sleep well without agitation.
What are some common uses for the Kodiak cold therapy unit?
The Kodiak Cold Therapy System is used post operatively for many common procedures and indications including:
- Arthroscopic knee, shoulder and ankle procedures
- Total knee, hip, and shoulder replacement procedures
- Knee Surgery / Hip Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- General Surgery
- Post-Trauma
- Chronic Pain
- Physical Therapy
Is a Cold therapy System right for me?
Cold therapy is not for everyone and can result in serious skin injury if misused. Talk to your doctor about your medical history and potential risks associated with cold therapy. Like most medical devices, the Kodiak Cold Therapy System may require a doctor’s prescription. Your doctor will determine if the Kodiak Cold Therapy System is right for you.
Is the Kodiak Cold Therapy System covered by medical insurance?
Most extended medical insurance companies will reimburse you for the cost of these types of medical devices. In most policies they will be referred to as Cold Therapy Units or Cryocuff Units. Typically getting reimbursed involves filling out a form and sending a copy of the receipt and prescription to your insurance company.
Where can I find more information about the Kodiak Cold Therapy System?
For more information about The Kodiak Cold Therapy System, including video instructions, please click here.