Cold therapy machines are ideal for managing chronic pain, speeding up recovery after an injury, and rehabilitating post-surgery. So how exactly do cold therapy machines work, and how do you use them to help your body heal? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how to use Donjoy Iceman, one of the most popular cold therapy machines on today’s market.
We’ll provide details on why the Donjoy Ice Machine is one of the best available (to learn more about other brands, read our Donjoy vs Breg review), and how you use Donjoy Iceman for shoulder injuries, knee rehabilitation, and more. If you’re considering investing in a Donjoy, or if you have already, this article contains everything you need to know to make your recovery as smooth as possible.
Why Proper Donjoy Iceman Use Can’t Be Overlooked
If you’re learning how to use Donjoy Iceman properly, you might be wondering why it’s so important to care for your machine correctly. Here are just a few of the reasons.
You Want to Get the Most Out of Your Treatment
Not only is cold therapy good for you, but it can help your body heal significantly faster after surgery or an injury. To make each session of cold therapy count, you need to make sure your machine is in top condition. Proper maintenance and use of your machine can help you squeeze the most benefits out of each treatment session, speeding up your recovery and getting you back to doing the things you love.
You Need to Protect Your Investment From Improper Use
Many people wonder “Are cold therapy machines worth it?”. After all, they can be a significant investment, especially if you are dealing with other expenses like hospital bills. One way to make sure you’re getting the most out of your investment is to learn how to use Donjoy Iceman properly. This will help you keep your cold therapy machine running in peak condition for years to come, protecting your investment.
You Must Keep Yourself Safe, Too!
When it comes to your health, you can’t take any chances. There are certain risks associated with cold therapy machines when used incorrectly, which is another reason why it’s so important to learn how to use Donjoy Iceman properly.
How to Use Donjoy Iceman for Shoulder Injuries/Rehab
Using Donjoy Iceman is a popular choice for shoulder injuries and post-surgery rehabilitation. Make sure you have the correct shoulder pad accessory, which is usually sold separately and available in different sizes. Here’s how you use Donjoy Iceman for shoulder rehab.
First, you need to prepare the machine. Fill the ice chamber with ice, up to the indicated fill line. Then, add cold water to the same chamber, also to the fill line. Secure the lid and connect the Iceman hose to the shoulder pad hose - you should hear a click when the connection is secure. Finally, plug the power cord into an outlet to turn the device on.
To attach the shoulder pad, make sure you first add a thin barrier between the skin and the pad. Do not apply the cold pad directly onto the skin. Secure the cold pad over the shoulder, with the hose extension running down the arm. Apply an elastic wrap around the torso (similar to wearing a sash) to keep the pad in place. Don’t make the elastic wrap so tight that it restricts circulation to the shoulder.
Wondering how long to use cold therapy after surgery on your shoulder? The guidelines are different for each patient, so ask your doctor or physical therapist when should you use cold therapy and how long each session should be.
How to Use Donjoy Iceman for Knee Injuries/Rehab
The Donjoy Iceman is also popular with patients recovering from knee injuries or surgery. Here’s how to use Donjoy Iceman for knee treatment. First, prepare the machine by filling the ice chamber with ice first, then cold water up to the fill line and secure the lid. Place the pad over your knee, with a dressing or some type of barrier underneath the pad - don’t apply the cold pad directly to your skin. Make sure the tubing is facing up, towards your body.
Keep the knee pad in place by securing it with an elastic wrap, but don’t wrap the pad so tightly that you’re cutting off circulation to the knee or lower leg. Once the pad is secure, connect the tubing on the knee pad to the tubing on the Iceman machine (make sure you hear a click). Plug the power cord into an outlet to turn on the machine and begin the cold therapy treatment.
If you’re wondering how to reduce post-surgery swelling around your knee and how long to use Donjoy Iceman for each treatment, make sure you consult your doctor or physical therapist. Different injuries and surgeries have different recovery requirements, so it’s best to find that information from someone familiar with your specific case.
Tips for Using Donjoy Iceman Machines in General
As well as learning how you use Donjoy iceman for shoulder injuries and other specific scenarios, it’s also important to understand how to care for and maintain your Donjoy Iceman in general. Here are some tips for using Donjoy Iceman properly and safely.
Proper Set-Up Protocol
Each time you are using Donjoy Iceman, make sure you follow the proper set-up protocol. This applies to the machine itself, as well as attaching and securing the strap to your affected body part. Follow the instruction manual (and the steps outlined above) to set up the Donjoy Iceman machine properly each time.
Cleaning the Machine Post-Use
Learning how to clean Donjoy Iceman is an important part of caring for and maintaining your cold therapy unit. After each use, unplug the machine from the power supply and disconnect the tubing from the pad to the hose. Empty the ice cooler and wipe it dry, and drain the pad by holding it with the tubing facing towards the ground.
Although it’s not necessary after every use, the pad can be hand washed in warm water with a mild soap. Make sure you thoroughly rinse the pad and leave it to air dry completely.
Storage & Maintenance
When you’re done using Donjoy Iceman, it’s important to store your machine properly. Make sure you store the Donjoy Iceman in a cool, dry location with ventilation. Don’t put the machine into storage until you are sure that the components are completely dry.
Safety Precautions & Issues to Watch For
There are a few safety precautions to keep in mind when learning how to use Donjoy Iceman for knee rehab and other injuries. Firstly, it’s important to understand that cold therapy can potentially cause harm if the temperatures are too low, or if it’s applied for too long. Make sure you understand how long to use the machine for, and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
If you’re applying cold therapy for long periods of time, make sure you are taking the pad off at least once every hour. Remove the pad and inspect your skin for any signs of redness, irritation, numbness, tingling, or any other changes. Talk to your doctor if you see any of these.
Also, make sure the machine has the chance to dry properly between each use. A damp environment could lead to bacterial and other microbial growth, which could give you an infection. By drying the cooler, the pad, and the tubing, you can greatly reduce the chance of contamination and microbial growth.
Final Thoughts on Using Donjoy Iceman Machines
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of how to use Donjoy Iceman for knee rehab and other issues. Not only does cold therapy reduce inflammation, but by using Donjoy Iceman machines you can see many other benefits, including increased range of motion and pain relief.
If you’re ready to start using cold therapy to help your body heal quickly and naturally, visit Ortho Bracing. We have a wide range of Donjoy products at prices even your doctor can’t beat. Check out the Donjoy Iceman Clear 3 for post-surgery recovery, or the Donjoy Iceman Classic to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Don’t forget to explore our Donjoy replacement parts and accessories - we have everything you need!
Heal your body the right way - visit Ortho Bracing for your Donjoy Iceman today!
