The term cryotherapy refers to a method of treating an injury via ice-cold liquid. Also referred to as cold therapy, this method is frequently used to treat sports injuries. Today, there are cold therapy devices that doctors send home with patients following surgery to help with the recovery process.
Cold therapy devices work by circulating ice-cold water from a portable cooler through a tube into a pad that can be placed on the injury site. Examples of these cold therapy machines include EBIce Cold Therapy System®, Donjoy Iceman® and Breg Polar Care®.
Cold Therapy Device Injuries
Since the introduction of these medical devices, some patients have complained of injuries, including:
- Chronic pain
- Frostbite
- Nerve damage
- Tissue and skin damage
Injuries to healthy cells from cold therapy devices may occur when a patient applies the cold pad to an injury for too long. Some injured patients allege negligence on the part of the manufacturer, claiming they did not warn them of the potential dangers associated with prolonged use of the machines. If you are using a cold therapy device, ask your doctor for proper safety instructions.
Symptoms of Cold Therapy Injuries
The symptoms associated with cold therapy injuries might include the following:
- Burning of the affected area
- Numb or tingly sensation at the injury site
- Skin may feel cold and hard
- Painful blisters may form within a few hours
When deep tissues are damaged, patients may experience long-term effects such as chronic pain, permanent cold sensitivity and numbness.
Cold Therapy Injury Lawsuits
If you or a loved one has suffered damage from a cold therapy deviceprescribed by your doctor, contact our firm for qualified legal advice. We will listen to your circumstances, free of charge, to determine if you have grounds for a legitimate claim. If so, we will fight aggressively to ensure you recover compensation for your pain and suffering.
Call us today, or send us an email, and schedule a free consultation with an experienced Cryotherapy injury attorney.
