A randomised crossover trial of five cryocompression devices’ ability to reduce skin temperature of the knee

Abstract

Background The application of cold and pressure to the knee is a common part of post-operative rehabilitation. Skin temperature should be reduced to within 10–15 °C to optimise the therapeutic benefits of cryocompression. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of five different cryocompression devices to reduce skin temperature to within this therapeutic range. Materials and methods 32 healthy adult participants (mean (SD): age 26.3 (7.9) years; BMI 24.8 (2.7) kg/m2; 20 males) were recruited for this randomised crossover study. Skin temperature was measured 20 mm distal to the patella using a k-type thermocouple every five minutes during a 30-minute treatment with one of five different cryocompression devices (Physiolab S1, GameReady, Cryo/Cuff, VPulse, and a Gel Wrap). Changes in skin temperature over time were compared to baseline within and between conditions. A subjective rating of comfort was also recorded for each device. Results The Physiolab S1 and GameReady devices caused significantly lower skin temperatures compared to the VPulse, Gel Wrap, and Cryo/Cuff after 30 minutes (p<0.05). 87–96% reported a positive comfort rating for the Physiolab S1, VPulse, Cryo/Cuff and Gel Wrap, whereas 53% of participants reported a positive comfort rating for the GameReady. Conclusions Only the Physiolab S1 and GameReady devices reduced skin temperature of the knee to within the target range of 10–15 °C. The Physiolab S1 was reportedly more comfortable than the GameReady. Clinicians should be aware of the performance differences of different cryocompression devices to understand which is most likely to provide an effective dose of cold therapy to a joint.