Product Review – The Breg Polar Care 500 Cold Therapy Unit Following Surgery
The flagship of BREG’s cold therapy product line, The Polar Care 500 offers a temperature regulated unit for continuous cold therapy. The Breg Polar Care 500 is one of the most utilized and popular cold therapy devices for conditions that require sustained cold therapy to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. For patients following surgery or injury, it has proven itself to be both reliable and effective.
Why do I need a cold therapy machine?
The two most common side effects of an orthopedic injury or surgery are pain and swelling. These conditions affect the healing process and can lead to longer rehabilitation times. Cold therapy is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatment methods to combat these issues.
Compared to ice and gel packs that provide intense cold over a small area & for a short period of time, requiring frequent trips to the freezer, cold therapy systems, such as the Polar Care 500 can deliver a continuous flow of cold therapy through circulation pads that are specifically designed for different body parts and applications.
The Polar Care 500 can deliver cold within a comfortable temperature range that allows for longer-term application according to your physician’s prescribed treatment protocol.
The Breg Polar Care 500 unit includes a low voltage submersible pump with in-line thermometer and flow valve for temperature control from 35-70 degrees. During use, the pump is submerged in the cooler and connected to a Polar Pad with self sealing couplings. A wall transformer provides power to the pump.
Easy-to-use temperature control gauge that allows for flexibility in adjusting the temperature of the continuous Cold Therapy pad between 35° – 70°. The motor for the Polar Care 500 has an industry-wide track record for reliability. All parts of the Polar Care 500 system can be individually replaced making it more economical to replace a worn out part.
At 11 quarts, the Polar Care 500 has the largest capacity cooler of any single-patient use, continuous Cold Therapy unit on the market and can provide 8 – 11 hours of continuous cold therapy.
Several accessories are available for the Polar Care 500 which enhances its use.
A “Y” adapter can be purchased that allow two extremities to be treated simultaneously. A wide selection of sterile and non-sterile pads are available to fit most every part of your body.
Polar Wraps can be wrapped around each of the Polar Pads, allowing patients to conveniently secure the pads to the affected area without using additional wraps or bandages. The Polar Wraps also control pad condensation.
The Breg Polar Care 500 has a 180 day warranty.
It is highly recommended that you consult with your treating physician before purchasing any cold therapy unit. This unit should only be used under direct supervision of a licensed health care practitioner. For more information on the Breg Polar Care 500 CLICK HERE.
Cryotherapy should not be used by persons with Diabetes, Raynaud’s or other vasospastic disease, cold hypersensitivity, or compromised local circulation. Please visit our site at www.braceshop.com for more information on this cold therapy unit and other similar units or call us at (866) 325-8045.
The Inside Story on Osteoarthritis
What is osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee?
OA is a painful degenerative condition that develops as the meniscus (cushioning cartilage in the knee joint) and/or the articular cartilage (soft, outer lining of the bones) begin to wear away. OA usually appears on one side of the knee, and affects both men and women across a broad age range.
What causes knee OA?
A variety of conditions can lead to knee OA. A previous knee injury or surgery that partially or entirely removed the meniscus from the knee is a common cause. Simple wear and tear of the knee joint occurring from years of activity can also be a factor.
What causes OA pain?
OA pain results from a deterioration or loss of cartilage. Pain is generally localized on the inside of the knee. Depending on the progression of the disease, the joint space may become small enough to allow the two bones to touch, causing pain.
Do I need knee surgery?
In the early stages of symptoms, a conservative approach is thought to be best. However, based on your history, symptoms, and the amount of degenerative change in your joint, your physician will determine the optimal treatment for you.
What are some non-surgical options?
Off-loading knee bracing is considered one of the best treatment options. Injections, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), supplements, strength and conditioning, including weight loss, and heel wedge insoles may also help reduce OA pain, especially when used in conjunction with bracing.
How effective is OA bracing in treating pain?
Knee bracing is proven highly effective in relieving OA symptoms. Studies suggest that the majority of OA patients using braces report significantly reduced pain, increased activity levels, and a substantial reduction in the use of oral pain medications.
Studies available upon request.
 Healthy Knee Healthy knee showing adequate space between bones |
 OA KneeOsteoarthritic knee showing reduced space and contact between bones. |
WHAT CAN BRACING DO FOR YOU?
Off-loading knee braces, such as FUSION OA, and the new Solus OA aid in pain relief by gently applying pressure to the unaffected side of the knee to relieve the compressive force in the affected side.
Are knee braces comfortable?
Not all braces are comfortable, but FUSION OA provides exceptional comfort even during all-day use. It is designed to offer the best combination of pain relief, comfort and fit, and unlike other functional braces, FUSION OA won’t migrate or slip.
Will a knee brace fit under my clothes?
Many knee braces are heavy and bulky, but FUSION OA & Solus OA is sleek and lightweight and fits discreetly under clothing.
How often do I need to wear the brace?
Your physician will direct you as to the frequency of use. Generally, you should expect to wear the brace during activities that would otherwise result in knee pain.
Will my health insurance pay for an OA knee brace?
Since The Brace Shop is a wholesale company, we do not participate in any insurance plants. Please check with your insurance carrier to determine coverage for OA knee braces. To see our full line of OA Braces, CLICK HERE.