Cold Compression Devices
Continuous Cold Therapy Devices (also called ice machines) which circulate ice water through a pad are currently the subject of class action law suits for skin and tissue damage caused by excessive cooling/icing time and lack of temperature control. Reported injuries range from frost-bite to severe tissue damage resulting in amputation. Device Brand Names include: DonJoy Iceman, BREG Polar Care, and EBice cold therapy systems.
Studies have shown that the body activates the hunting response after only 10 minutes of cryotherapy, at temperatures less than 49F (9.5C). The hunting response is a cycle of vasoconstriction (decreased blood flow), then vasodilation (increased blood flow) that increases the delivery of Oxygen and nutrient rich blood to the tissue. Increased blood flow can slow cell death, limit tissue damage and aid in the removal of cellular debris and waste products. Under normal circumstances the hunting response would be essential to tissue health but only serves to increase pain, inflammation and cell death as excess blood is forced into the area.
Read more about this topic: Cold Compression Therapy
Famous quotes containing the words cold, compression and/or devices:
“That which in mean men we entitle patience
Is pale cold cowardice in noble breasts.”
—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)
“The triumphs of peace have been in some proximity to war. Whilst the hand was still familiar with the sword-hilt, whilst the habits of the camp were still visible in the port and complexion of the gentleman, his intellectual power culminated; the compression and tension of these stern conditions is a training for the finest and softest arts, and can rarely be compensated in tranquil times, except by some analogous vigor drawn from occupations as hardy as war.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)
“The gods being always close to men perceive those who afflict others with unjust devices and do not fear the wrath of heaven.”
—Hesiod (c. 8th century B.C.)