Cold therapy devices designed for shoulder injuries utilize circulating chilled water to reduce pain and inflammation. These devices, often resembling a sleeve or wrap connected to a cooling unit, deliver consistent, controlled cold to the affected area. This targeted application can offer significant relief following surgery or injury.
Controlled cold application plays a crucial role in post-operative and injury recovery by minimizing swelling, numbing pain, and potentially reducing the need for pain medication. Historically, basic ice packs or cold compresses were the primary method for cold therapy. Modern devices offer advantages such as consistent temperature, targeted application, and greater convenience for extended use, promoting better patient compliance and potentially faster recovery.