Risks of ice and heat therapy

We want to make our customers aware of the risks of cold and heat therapy 

Risks of ice therapy

We have a duty of care to our customers and it is important that we make you aware of the risks associated with incorrect use of any cryo/cold products. If you have ordered your machine through the referral of your medical practitioner always ensure you enquire about these risks and how they recommend you use the equipment. 

If you apply the cold therapy equipment for too long and / or at too low a temperature the risks you are exposing yourself to is as follows:

  • Loss of circulation to the area being treated
  • Skin damage - for example burns, blistering 
  • Peripheral nerve injury
  • Chronic pain
  • Tingling or numbness
  • Frostbite
  • Scarring
  • Disfigurement
  • Tissue damage
  • Permanent nerve damage
  • Tissue death or necrosis
  • Infection
  • Amputation

This is not an exhaustive list of potential risks you may be exposed to if you use the equipment incorrectly. If you experience any of the risks stated please consult your doctor immediately. Please ensure you read our medical conditions page to consider whether this is the right product for you. 

Risks of heat therapy

We have a duty of care to our customers and it is important that we make you aware of the risks associated with incorrect use of any heat products. If you have ordered your equipment through the referral of your medical practitioner always ensure you enquire about these risks and how they recommend you use the equipment. 

Though the risks may be less these are some well known consequences of incorrectly using these products:

  • Skin rash or burn - A rash or burn that takes on a distinctive web-like pattern and appears red or dark is called erythema ab igne. While erythema ab igne usually fades after heat therapy is discontinued, a biopsy may be necessary to test for pre-cancerous cells
  • Decreased blood pressure - Even after a single session of heat therapy, blood pressure will drop. Due to the sudden decrease in blood pressure, individuals who often experience orthostatic hypotension (dizziness or light-headedness upon standing) may find certain heat treatments problematic.
  • Increased heart rate - The heart has to work at a faster pace to keep up with the increased blood flow to the heated area. Increased heart rate will return to baseline levels once heat treatment is removed or stopped. The changes in heart rate during and after therapy may pose significant risks for people with cardiovascular conditions such as arrhythmia.
  • Increase inflammation and swelling - Heat therapy is not recommended immediately after physical activity, after injury, or during an infection. The heat will worsen pain and prolong healing if used when the tissues are damaged or infected.

How do you reduce these risks?

There are certain things you can do to reduce your exposure to the risks:

  • Consult a medical practitioner before you use. They will instruct you how to use the machine, ensure you maintain a reasonable temperature and the time periods you use the equipment. 
  • Ensure the area you intend to use the equipment is covered either with tubby grip, lycra top/bottoms or any material which will reduce the exposure of cold therapy
  • Read the medical condition page before you order our products to ensure you will not be doing yourself more harm.