Benefits of Cryotherapy and Compression for Surgery
According to the CDC ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ) more than 50 million people undergo inpatient surgery each year. While surgery is typically performed with the intention of fixing a problem, it also creates a whole new injury – a wound which then stimulates inflammation, which is a major source of post-surgical pain. Some inflammation is good – it is the body’s response to physical trauma and can even stimulate the immune system to prevent infection. But following surgery, you don’t want this reaction to last too long because it prolongs the pain which then in turn prolongs your return to movement, which speeds healing. In addition, the swelling that normally accompanies inflammation can impede recovery and cause serious discomfort. Cold and Pressure for Post-Op Pain Relief RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) is a widely accepted and recommended method of reducing pain and swelling, however compliance can be problematic. Bags of ice melt, requiring rep...