If you’re searching for ways to reduce post-surgical pain and swelling, or to help you recover from a sports-related injury faster, a cold therapy machine might be just what you need. These devices use controlled cold application to offer a non-invasive alternative to traditional pain management methods.
There are so many benefits of cold therapy, but people are sometimes reluctant to buy their own machine for financial reasons. So, can you rent a cold therapy machine instead? And is it more cost-effective than buying one?
In this guide, we’ll break down the costs associated with buying vs renting a cold therapy machine, helping you make the smartest possible financial decision. Once we do the math, you might be surprised to learn that buying a cold therapy machine is a better choice for both your wallet and your wellness.
So, how much does it cost to rent a cold therapy machine, and why should you buy one instead? Let’s find out.
Overview of Cold Therapy
First of all, what is a cold therapy unit, how does cold therapy work, and is cold therapy good for you? Let’s take a look at the science behind cold therapy, and why a cold therapy machine is so much better for your recovery than an old-school ice pack.
How it Works
Cold therapy machines work by circulating chilled water through a wrap or pad that is applied directly to your injury. These devices allow for precise temperature control and consistent application, which is much more effective and safer than using ice packs.
Are cold therapy machines worth it? Absolutely. The cold reduces blood flow to the targeted area, minimizing inflammation and swelling, while also numbing the area to decrease pain. Some machines also offer compression, which improves blood circulation and reduces fluid buildup.
Advantages Over Traditional Icing
Unlike ice packs, which can become too cold or lose their effectiveness as they melt, cold therapy machines maintain a consistent, controlled temperature. This reduces the risk of frostbite and gives your body exactly what it needs to heal.
If you’ve used an ice pack, you’ll know that it usually has to be removed after about 20 minutes - your skin simply gets too cold and uncomfortable. That means that you can’t really enjoy the benefits of cold therapy for more than 20 minutes at a time.
Cold therapy machines, on the other hand, are designed to be used for several hours at a time. Your skin will stay comfortable even with extended use, and you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of cold therapy for much longer than you can with an ice pack.
Does cold therapy reduce inflammation? Yes - and it’s much more effective to use a cryo cuff vs ice pack. You don’t have to hold anything in place, you can enjoy much longer treatment sessions, and the temperature remains far more consistent.
Can You Rent a Cold Therapy Machine?
So, can you rent a cold therapy machine? And how much does it cost to rent a cold therapy machine? Yes - you can rent a cold therapy unit, but there are a few things to think about before you do. Here’s what you need to know.
Pros and Cons of Renting
If you know that you’re only going to need a cold therapy machine for a short amount of time, renting has some advantages. You’ll still have to pay for the machine, but you can return it as soon as you don’t need it anymore.
However, renting also comes with some disadvantages. For starters, it’s not as cost-effective as you might think. If you’re savvy about where you buy from, you can find quality cold therapy machines that are reasonably priced.
The ongoing costs of renting quickly start to add up, whereas buying a cold therapy machine is a one-time cost, then it’s yours forever. You may find that even within a couple of weeks of use you would end up spending more on renting a machine vs buying one.
It also depends on how long to use cold therapy after surgery - some people (and some surgeries) require a longer recovery time than others. If you need to use cold therapy for more than a couple of weeks, buying is usually more cost-effective.
And also, what happens if you have another surgery or injury in the future? If you already have a cold therapy machine at home, you can start using it right away, with no additional cost. Organizing another rental will take time, cost more, and ultimately slow down your recovery.
Where Can You Rent a Cold Therapy System?
If you do decide that renting is the right choice for you, you can rent cold therapy units from medical supply stores, hospitals and clinics, and home healthcare providers. You might not have as many options to choose from when renting, and it may be harder to find the best cold therapy machine for your needs.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Cold Therapy Machine?
So, how much does it cost to rent a cold therapy machine? It varies depending on a few different things, including the type of machine, the duration of the rental, and where you’re located. Let’s take a look.
Factors Influencing Rental Costs
The complexity and features of the cold therapy unit can affect the rental price. Basic models that provide standard cooling functions are generally more affordable, while advanced machines offering temperature control, compression, and extended cold duration can be more expensive.
The length of time you need the machine will also directly impact the overall cost. Most rental services offer daily, weekly, or monthly rates, with longer rental periods often leading to a reduced daily rate. However, the total cost will naturally increase with extended use.
Where you rent the machine from can also affect the cost. Urban areas with higher demand and a wider selection of providers may have more competitive pricing, while rural areas with fewer rental options might see higher costs.
Average Cost to Rent a Cold Therapy Machine
So, how much does it cost to rent a cold therapy machine? On average, you can expect to pay between $25 to $45 per day for a basic cold therapy machine. Advanced models with additional features may cost $50 to $75 per day.
Weekly rentals often provide a discount over daily rates, with costs ranging from $100 to $150 for standard machines. More advanced models might cost between $200 to $300 per week.
If you need the machine for an extended period, monthly rates offer the most savings. Monthly rentals typically range from $250 to $400 for basic machines, while advanced systems can cost $500 to $700 or more.
Why You’re Better Off Buying Your Own Cold Therapy Machine
Those prices might seem reasonable, but when you compare them to the cost of buying a machine outright, you’ll soon see that owning your own cold therapy unit is almost always the more cost-effective option. Plus, it comes with a few extra benefits, as you’ll soon see.
Long-Term Cost Savings
Although there’s the upfront cost of purchasing a cold therapy machine, it eliminates the recurring rental fees that can add up over time. If you require cold therapy on a regular basis, buying a machine is much more economical than continuously renting one.
Also, when you own the machine, you don’t have to worry about return deadlines or extending rental agreements, which can incur additional costs. You have the flexibility to use the machine whenever needed, without the pressure of daily or weekly fees.
And, if you ever find that you no longer need the machine, you may be able to sell it and recoup some of your investment. This is not an option with rentals, where the money you spend cannot be recovered.
Health and Hygiene Considerations
With your own machine, you can be certain that it’s been used only by you or your family members, minimizing the risk of exposure to bacteria or pathogens. Even with thorough cleaning by rental companies, there’s always some risk associated with shared medical equipment.
Knowing that the machine is solely yours can provide peace of mind, especially if you’re someone who prioritizes cleanliness and hygiene. This can be particularly important for anyone with a compromised immune system, which you may have if you’re recovering from surgery.
The Convenience of Ownership
There’s no denying that owning your own cold therapy machine is more convenient. Having a machine at home means you can start therapy as soon as you need it, without waiting for a rental to become available or for delivery.
This can be crucial in managing pain and swelling effectively. Not only will you be more comfortable, but by treating your injury or issue right away, you can start your body on its healing journey faster, which often reduces your overall recovery time.
There are no limits on how often or how long you can use the machine, which gives you more consistent and flexible treatment. This is especially beneficial if you’re managing chronic conditions that require ongoing therapy and can flare up without any warning.
Find the Perfect Ice Therapy System at Ortho Bracing!
So, we’ve explained that buying a cold therapy unit is usually a more cost-effective option, but where should you shop for your cold therapy system? If you’re wondering where to find cold therapy machines, you’re already in the right place - we have the best selection and prices here at Ortho Bracing!
Why Shop With Us?
At Ortho Bracing, we’re proud to offer nothing but the best quality cold therapy machines, from the world’s leading, trusted brands. Every cold therapy system we stock has shown proven results and will help you get back on your feet faster and more comfortably.
Not only do we have the best selection, but we also have prices that even your doctor can’t match. One look will show you that the cost of a cold therapy unit from Ortho Bracing is cheaper than renting a unit short-term. Plus, it’s yours forever!
Another thing that sets us apart is our incredible service team. We’re here to help every customer, whether you need to learn how to use Donjoy Iceman, want to understand the pros and cons of Donjoy vs Breg, or discover the benefits of cold therapy vs heat therapy. Reach out anytime!
We’ll help you find the best price on a cold therapy unit that’s perfect for your needs, and we’ll also make sure you have it as soon as possible. We offer next-day shipping on in-stock products, ensuring you’re not waiting around for natural, effective pain relief and healing.
Our Top Brands and Models
At Ortho Bracing, you can find all the top cold therapy brands, with advanced models for the latest in cold therapy technology. Explore our top-rated systems, including:
- Aircast Cryo Cuff
- Breg Polar Care Glacier
- Breg Polar Care Cube
- Breg Polar Care Wave
- Donjoy Ice Machine
And if you’re not sure which is right for you, ask our team! We’re always available to answer your questions about cold therapy and to help you find the most suitable cold therapy system for your specific situation.
Final Thoughts on Renting a Cold Therapy Machine
Cold therapy is one of the most effective treatments for recovering from surgery and healing injuries. With the best cold therapy device, you can get back on your feet safely, naturally, and as quickly as possible.
Renting a cold therapy system lets you enjoy all the benefits of cold therapy from the convenience and comfort of your home, but it comes at a price. The cost of renting a cold therapy unit can quickly add up, especially if you need it for an extended time.
Buying your own cold therapy machine is almost always a smarter investment than renting. You only have to pay once, and cold therapy is then yours forever, whenever you need it! At Ortho Bracing, we have the lowest prices on the best cold therapy units out there.
If you’re not sure which device is right for you, just ask! Our expert team is here to help you find the right cold therapy system for your needs, and with next-day shipping on in-stock products, we’ll make sure you have relief from pain, swelling, and inflammation before you know it.
Don’t waste money renting a cold therapy device - invest in your own cold therapy system for relief and healing whenever you need it. Shop Ortho Bracing today!