Cold therapy units, frequently utilizing circulating water and ice, are commonly employed following knee surgery to manage pain and swelling. These devices deliver consistent cold temperatures to the surgical site, reducing inflammation and discomfort. An example is a system with a reservoir for ice and water, connected to a pad or cuff that wraps around the knee, providing targeted cold application.
Post-surgical application of cold effectively minimizes edema and hematoma formation, promoting faster healing. This non-pharmacological intervention reduces reliance on pain medication, potentially lessening side effects. Historically, basic ice packs served this purpose, but dedicated cold therapy systems offer more consistent temperature control and hands-free application, improving patient comfort and adherence to the prescribed therapy.