How to Choose a Cold Therapy Machine
Gravity-fed or motorized?
A gravity system like the Aircast Cryo/Cuff has no pump and no power cord. You raise and lower the cooler by hand to refresh the cold water. Motorized machines like the DonJoy IceMan Classic3 and Polar Active Ice 3.0 circulate ice water continuously, so the cold stays steady without any effort from you.
Cold only, or cold and compression?
Compression helps control swelling. The Aircast Cryo/Cuff adds light compression as the cuff fills, and the Game Ready GRPro 2.1 adds active, adjustable compression that pumps on and off. Most ice machines provide cold only.
Knee or ankle?
Choose a cuff or pad shaped for the joint you are treating. For the knee, look for a McGuire knee pad or a full circumference knee pad that wraps all the way around. For the ankle, choose an ankle cuff or a bootie-style foot and ankle pad, which works well over thick surgical dressings.
Timer and cooler size
Many doctors recommend cold therapy in on and off cycles. The Polar Active Ice 3.0 has a programmable timer to handle that for you, and its 9 or 16-quart cooler means fewer refills, especially overnight.
Buy or rent?
If you only need cold therapy for a few weeks after surgery, renting a Game Ready can make sense. If you will use it for a longer recovery, for more than one surgery or for more than one person, buying is usually the better value.
Safety first
Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Cold therapy is not recommended for people with Raynaud’s syndrome, diabetes, poor circulation, cold hypersensitivity or nerve disorders without a doctor’s approval, and you should check your skin regularly during use.
Cold Therapy Machines in Lexington, KY
Getting ready for a knee replacement, ACL repair or ankle surgery? Stop by Mobility Equipment of Lexington before your procedure. We will help you choose the right machine and cuff, show you how to set it up, and pair it with a knee walker, rollator or lift chair for an easier recovery at home.
Showroom: 2551 Regency Road, Unit 108, Lexington, KY 40503
Phone: 859-523-0993
Hours: Monday to Friday 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday 10 am to 2 pm
We help customers from across Central Kentucky, including Georgetown, Nicholasville, Winchester, Richmond, Versailles, and Frankfort.
Cold Therapy FAQs
Does Medicare cover cold therapy machines?
No. Medicare treats cold therapy units as non-covered, and most private insurance plans do too. They are usually FSA/HSA eligible, so you can often pay with pre-tax health dollars.
What is the best cold therapy machine after knee replacement?
It depends on your budget and your surgeon’s instructions. The Polar Active Ice 3.0 with a full circumference knee pad and the DonJoy IceMan Classic3 with a McGuire knee pad are popular choices, and the Game Ready GRPro 2.1 adds active compression. Ask your surgeon if they have a preference.
What is the most affordable cold therapy option?
The Aircast Cryo/Cuff gravity system is $109 with a knee or ankle cuff, and it needs no electricity.
What is the difference between an ice machine and Game Ready?
Ice machines like the IceMan and Active Ice circulate cold water only. Game Ready adds adjustable, active pneumatic compression that gently squeezes and releases to help reduce swelling.
Can I rent a cold therapy machine?
Yes. Game Ready rentals are $300 per week or $900 per month. See Game Ready rentals or call 859-523-0993.
Can I return a cold therapy machine?
Due to hygiene rules, cold therapy products cannot be returned once opened, so stop by and we will help you choose the right cuff or pad before you buy.