Your Cold and Compression Surgery Recovery Guide
Take control of your recovery with smart cold and compression therapy. Discover the ideal routine after surgery and plan your recovery.
KEY COLD THERAPY TAKEAWAYS
Here's what you should keep in mind when thinking about “how cold should I be?”:
- Colder isn't always better — aim for precise, therapeutic cooling rather than extremes.
- Timing counts — use controlled cold therapy early and after activity to help manage swelling and pain.
- Personalise your approach — every injury and recovery phase is different.
- Smart tools matter — clinically designed systems like NICE1 help you stay in the optimal range safely and comfortably.
PLANNING COLD AND COMPRESSION POST SURGERY
We like to say that “if it feels good, it's probably doing good”. The NICE1 is a fantastic piece of kit that gives the user maximum control over their recovery and what that feels like. When you get home from hospital, use it as much as you can, in the way that works best for you. Listen to your body, and you'll be back in the game in no time.
The table below provides a guide to how and when to use cold and compression therapy at each stage of your recovery journey.
| Recovery Period | Timeline | Mobilisation Status | How to Use Cold and Compression Therapy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Critical Period 1 | Up to 72 hours post surgery | Rest, no/little mobilisation | Use consistently 30 mins on, 30 mins rest, or as needed. Ice through the night helps with pain relief and to bring down swelling. |
| Critical Period 2 | Up to 7 days post surgery | Mobilisation, early rehab | Use to manage pain and continue to bring down swelling. Find your comfortable spot between icing consistently with rest periods to icing a few times a day for 30 min periods. |
| Critical Period 3 | Up to 3 weeks post surgery | Getting back to moving, developing range of movement | Use when you have the opportunity a few times per day. Take advantage especially following movement and rehab, or any other action that might cause a flare up. |
| Further Recovery | Getting back in the game | Rehab and physio | Ice at least once a day and after any rehab and training. Self-prescribed action based on your experience. |
Ready to take control of your recovery?
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