If your surgeon recommended an ice machine, the next question is usually whether to rent one or buy one. We'll be upfront: OrthoBracing does not rent machines. We sell them. This guide compares renting from a medical supplier with buying from us, so you can choose the option that costs less for your recovery.
Rent vs Buy at a Glance
| Renting (from a supplier) | Buying (from OrthoBracing) | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Weekly or monthly fee, often plus a deposit | One payment; cold therapy units start at $149.99 |
| Pad | Usually you have to buy a new pad anyway, for hygiene | Included with the unit |
| Who used it before | Other patients | Only you |
| Deadline | Return by a set date or pay more | None; keep it for later injuries |
| Warranty | Varies by supplier | 6-month manufacturer's warranty on machines |
| FSA/HSA | Depends on the supplier | All OrthoBracing products are FSA/HSA eligible |
How Long Will You Actually Need It?
How long you need a machine drives the whole decision. Your surgeon's instructions come first. As a rough guide, people often ice for one to two weeks after arthroscopy, and for several weeks after a knee replacement, hip replacement or shoulder repair. Many people keep using cold therapy after physical therapy sessions long after that.
- Week 1–2: several sessions a day
- Weeks 3–6: after PT / as needed
- Later: flare-ups
Work Out Your Own Break-Even Point
Rental prices vary a lot by supplier and region, so get a written quote. Then do this quick math:
- Rental total = weekly rate × weeks you expect to need it + deposit you won't get back + any required pad.
- Compare that to the price of the unit you'd buy (see below), minus the OB10SAVE200 discount if your order is $200 or more.
- If the rental total is close to the purchase price, buying usually wins, because you keep the machine.
Why Buying Is Often the Better Deal
It's clean and it's yours
A rental unit has been used by other patients. The cooler and hoses get cleaned between users, but the pad sits right on your skin near the incision. That's why many suppliers make you buy a new pad. When you buy, everything is new and used only by you.
No return deadline
Recovery doesn't always go to plan. If you need the machine longer, you don't pay extra fees. It's also there for the next sprain, flare-up or surgery in the family. Replacement pads cost much less than a new rental, too.
Pre-tax dollars
All OrthoBracing products are FSA/HSA eligible, so you can pay with your health savings card. See our guide to insurance, Medicare and FSA/HSA coverage.
When Renting Can Make Sense
Renting can be reasonable if your surgeon wants cold plus active compression for only a week or two, and a high-end compression system is more than you want to spend. If you're in that spot, compare the rental total with the Breg Polar Care Wave (cold plus compression, from $285) before you decide.
What to Buy Instead of Renting
- DonJoy IceMan Cold Therapy System: $149.99–$189.99. Our lowest-priced motorized cold therapy unit.
- Breg Polar Care Cube: $176–$215. A simple, popular choice for knee, shoulder, hip, back and ankle.
- Breg Polar Care Wave: $285–$589. Cold plus pulsing compression.
- Game Ready: $3,037.39–$3,579.82. Cold with active compression, for people who want to own the system clinics use. See what a Game Ready really costs.
Not sure which one fits your surgery? Start with our picks for knee surgery, hip replacement or shoulder surgery.
Current OrthoBracing discount
Use code OB10SAVE200 for $10 off orders of $200 or more, on any product. See terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does OrthoBracing rent ice machines?
No. We only sell new units. If you want to rent, a local medical supply company or your surgeon's office may offer rentals.
Is it cheaper to rent or buy an ice machine?
For a week or less, renting may cost less. For longer recoveries, rental fees plus a required pad often get close to the price of a new Cube or IceMan unit, which you then keep.
Can I rent a Game Ready?
Some clinics and suppliers rent Game Ready systems. OrthoBracing sells them; we don't rent them.
Can I use my FSA or HSA?
Yes. All OrthoBracing products are FSA/HSA eligible. Check your plan's rules if you're unsure.
What warranty comes with a purchased machine?
Machines come with a 6-month manufacturer's warranty. Breg pads have 6 months; DonJoy IceMan pads and wraps have 1 month.