Equi-N-icE cooling system is clinically proven
Clinical trial results [1] on the effects of the unique coolant in Equi-N-icE for horses and Physicool (the human version) have demonstrated a ‘dramatic improvement’ [1] compared to standard cooling therapy.
The trial tested the patented cooling system after severe joint trauma and found that mobility was improved by a massive 50% and pain reduced by 50% compared to currently used ice/cryo therapy [1].
The trial results were presented at EFORT (European Federation of National Associations of Orthopaedics and Traumatology [1].
Clinical trial details
Orthopaedic surgeons at Dorset County hospital (DCH) carried out a trial of 80 patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. After the operation 40 patients used Physicool and 40 used the traditional Cryocuff . The results for Physicool were significantly better than for Cryocuff [1]. The patients using Physicool had a 50% reduction in pain and a 50% increase in mobility compared to those using Cryocuff.
Consultant orthopaedic and trauma surgeon at DCH Simon Garrett said: “We are constantly looking at ways to improve our patient care. If we can reduce the pain following knee replacement surgery, we can get patients up and moving more quickly and they will be able to leave hospital sooner. We found that post-operatively, patient pain scores were much reduced and Physicool made a dramatic difference.”
Equi-N-icE and Physicool
The Equi-N-icE and Physicool cooling systems are both based on a unique, patented cooling method which creates rapid evaporation to generate a cooling effect. Heat is drawn away from the tissues unlike traditional products which attempt to work by cooling the outer surface of the skin. Applying ice packs to injuries is becoming increasingly recognised as hazardous for both horses and humans (see below).
Both Equi-N-icE and Physicool can be used to safely reduce pain and swelling after trauma and to treat inflammation and bruising of muscles, tendons and ligaments.
Dangers of Ice therapy
It is recognized that problems arise with over-exposure of ice therapy to an injured area. There is increasing evidence that applying ice (even wrapped in a towel) can lead to frostbite [2]. When low blood circulation and long exposure to cold temperature are experienced together, the skin tissue can freeze and become permanently damaged. When applied for an extended period of time, ice therapy causes the area to become numb and lose feeling, increasing the risk of permanent nerve damage.
References
- Barrett M, Garrett S, Mumith A, Enhancing post operative rehabilitation using a new cooling appliance in knee arthroplasty patients. Presented at EFORT (European Federation of National Associations of Orthopaedics and Traumatology 2012, awaiting publication.
- Graham CA, Stevenson J, Frozen chips: an unusual cause of severe frostbite injury, Br J Sports Med 2000;34:382-383