Warning: Water-Circulating Hot/Cold Therapy Devices

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a safety communication for water-circulating hot/cold therapy devices.

These devices, typically used to provide pain relief, move water (heated or chilled) to a particular area of the body.

Used in hospitals, outpatient clinics, athletic training settings and home settings, these devices provide temporary relief of swelling and pain from surgical procedures and sudden injuries (minor sprains and strains).

The water is typically moved through a tube into a wrap placed on the part of the body of concern.

The issue? The FDA is warning consumers that these devices can cause injuries when not used properly. When used correctly, however, these devices should not cause pain or skin damage.

These devices may provide any of the following types of therapy:

• Cold therapy only
• Hot and cold therapy
• Compression therapy

The FDA was strongly encouraging consumers to speak with a health care provider before using one of these devices, as well as following the health care provider’s and manufacturer’s instructions.

The agency has received several reports of pain and injuries linked to all three types of water-circulating devices (cold, hot and compression therapy).

According to the FDA, the most serious skin and tissue injuries that have been reported have been related to cold therapy. Those injuries range from numbness to frostbite. Some reports involved cell death requiring medical intervention like skin grafts and amputation.

All three therapy modes (cold, heat and compression therapy) pose some risk, according to the FDA. For example, second-degree burns can occur when using a hot therapy device.

The FDA recommended speaking with your health care provider before using any of these devices. Some questions to ask:

• The type of therapy you will use (hot, cold or compression)
• How often and how long you should apply the device to your body
• The length of time between uses
• Total time of treatment
• How to properly use these devices
• How to check your skin while using the device
• What side effects to look out for and what to do if you notice any side effects

Before using any of these devices, tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and all the medications you take (prescription, over the counter, supplements, herbals, vitamins, etc.). Your health care provider will determine whether any of these devices are safe for you to use.

If you experience any of the following side effects, stop use of the device and seek medical advice:

• Increased pain
• Burning
• Increased swelling
• Discoloration
• Welts

Speak with your health care provider if you have any questions.