"Game Ready" Icing Systems

[Garet Jax]

Hello all,

Looking for some advice here. Going in for my 3rd shoulder surgery. The past two, I have used a Game Ready icing system. I have found the icing system to be more essential in pain management than even the prescribed drugs. I don't think I could have gotten through the surgeries and recoveries if not for the icing system.

The doctor who I have selected for this surgery is resisting giving me a prescription for Game Ready and instead wants to use the Bledsoe Cold Control Therapy Unit. I know nothing about them, but it seems that not all cold therapy systems are created equal and the vast majority of professional sports teams have selected Game Ready.

Can someone help me understand why the doctor is resisting? I am trying to get him on the phone so I can understand what his reservations are first hand, but so far the only thing I have heard is that he doesn't want me to have compression with the icing.

Does anyone here have insight into the market to help me understand this better? Is my Dr. getting a kickback for using a particular icing system or for using a particular distributor? Is there a problem with compression after surgery?

Thanks in advance.

 

[SociallyChallenged]

Hello all,

Looking for some advice here. Going in for my 3rd shoulder surgery. The past two, I have used a Game Ready icing system. I have found the icing system to be more essential in pain management than even the prescribed drugs. I don't think I could have gotten through the surgeries and recoveries if not for the icing system.

The doctor who I have selected for this surgery is resisting giving me a prescription for Game Ready and instead wants to use the Bledsoe Cold Control Therapy Unit. I know nothing about them, but it seems that not all cold therapy systems are created equal and the vast majority of professional sports teams have selected Game Ready.

Can someone help me understand why the doctor is resisting? I am trying to get him on the phone so I can understand what his reservations are first hand, but so far the only thing I have heard is that he doesn't want me to have compression with the icing.

Does anyone here have insight into the market to help me understand this better? Is my Dr. getting a kickback for using a particular icing system or for using a particular distributor? Is there a problem with compression after surgery?

Thanks in advance.

Many times the doctors will get some form of goods/money from the company who supplies them. However, some doctors are very particular about what they want their patients on. Ultimately you make the decisions regarding your healthcare. Make it known that you'd very much appreciate the other system, as it has worked wonderfully in the past (be nice). If he explains WHY he wants it specifically and you agree, then ask some questions. He may very well have good reason to avoid that one based on new research or past experience. If you don't like his reason, tell him you're not willing to risk it.

What he's doing is almost medical paternalism, which is illegal. Make him know that it's not really an option, but be cordial. Ultimately, you're in charge of your health care. He's going to give you an ice machine and you should be able to decide which one.