How To Use Breg Polar Care Cube For Shoulder

How to Use the Breg Polar Care Cube for Shoulder Rehabilitation

The Breg Polar Care Cube is a highly regarded cold therapy system designed to aid in the recovery process by reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation. It’s particularly effective for shoulder injuries or post-surgical rehabilitation, offering a convenient, reliable, and user-friendly solution for at-home care.

Whether you’re recovering from a rotator cuff surgery, a shoulder strain, or another orthopedic procedure, this device can significantly enhance your healing journey when used correctly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to use the Breg Polar Care Cube for shoulder treatment, including setup, application, safety precautions, and tips for maximizing its benefits.

Understanding the Breg Polar Care Cube

Before diving into the specifics of using the device, it’s helpful to understand what the Breg Polar Care Cube is and why it’s so effective. This motorized cold therapy system circulates chilled water through a specialized pad that conforms to the shoulder, delivering consistent cooling for up to 6-8 hours per ice fill.

Unlike traditional ice packs, which lose their coldness quickly and can be cumbersome to apply, the Polar Care Cube maintains a steady temperature, targeting the affected area precisely and comfortably. Its compact design makes it ideal for home use, and its simplicity ensures that anyone can operate it with minimal effort.

Cold therapy, or cryotherapy, works by numbing nerve endings, reducing inflammation, and slowing down metabolic activity in the treated area. This helps alleviate pain and promotes faster healing, making it a staple in post-operative care and injury recovery. For shoulder issues, where swelling and discomfort can linger, the Breg Polar Care Cube offers a practical way to manage symptoms without over-relying on pain medications.

What You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following items:

• Breg Polar Care Cube unit: The main cooling device.
• Shoulder Wrap-On Pad: Ensure you have the correct pad size—regular for chest circumferences under 42 inches, or XL for 42 inches and above.
• Insulation barrier: A thin towel, T-shirt, or sterile dressing (available from Breg) to place between the pad and your skin.
• Ice: Enough to fill the unit (about 2-4 pounds, depending on usage).
• Water: Preferably distilled or clean tap water to mix with the ice.
• Power outlet: The device requires electricity to operate its pump.
• Stable surface: A table or countertop near where you’ll be resting.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Use

Here’s how to set up and use the Breg Polar Care Cube for your shoulder:

1. Prepare the Unit

• Place the Breg Polar Care Cube on a flat, stable surface near your resting area. Ensure it’s close enough to a power outlet but positioned so it won’t tip over.
• Open the lid of the cooler and fill it with ice up to the marked line inside. Crushed ice or small cubes work best for even cooling.
• Add cold water until it reaches the fill line, covering the ice. Close the lid securely.

2. Attach the Shoulder Pad

• Take the Wrap-On Shoulder Pad and connect it to the hose extending from the Cube. You’ll hear a “click” when you have a secure connection. Double-check to ensure it’s locked in place to prevent leaks.
• Inspect the pad and hose for any damage before proceeding. If you notice tears or cracks, replace the components to avoid malfunctions.

3. Apply the Pad to Your Shoulder

• Position an insulation barrier (like a thin towel) over your shoulder where the pad will sit. This is critical to protect your skin from frostbite or irritation caused by direct contact with the cold pad.
• Place the shoulder pad over the barrier, aligning it to cover the affected area—whether it’s the rotator cuff, joint, or surrounding muscles. The pad’s ergonomic design and elastic straps make it easy to secure.
• Use the numbered straps to fasten the pad. For example, strap number three typically goes under your arm, while others wrap around your chest or over your shoulder. Adjust them for a snug but comfortable fit—tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it restricts circulation.

4. Start the Cold Therapy

• Plug the power cord into an outlet and turn on the unit. The pump will begin circulating cold water through the pad.
• You’ll feel the cooling effect within a few minutes. Adjust the pad’s position if needed to target the right spot.

5. Monitor and Time Your Session

• Use the Breg Polar Care Cube for 20-30 minutes per session, unless your doctor advises otherwise. This duration is typically safe and effective for reducing pain and swelling without risking skin damage.
• Check your skin periodically during use. If it feels overly cold, numb, or uncomfortable, pause the session and add an extra layer of insulation.
• After 20-30 minutes, unplug the unit to stop the flow. You can repeat this process several times a day—commonly 3-4 sessions—depending on your recovery plan.

6. Post-Use Care

• Disconnect the pad from the hose and gently remove it from your shoulder.
• Empty the water and ice from the Cube after each use to keep it clean. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and let it air dry.
• Store the unit and pad in a cool, dry place until your next session.

Safety Precautions

While the Breg Polar Care Cube is safe when used correctly, improper use can lead to complications. Keep these precautions in mind:

• Always use an insulation barrier: Direct contact between the pad and your skin can cause frostbite or burns.
• Don’t exceed recommended times: Overexposure to cold (beyond 30 minutes) may damage skin, nerves, or tissues.
• Check for contraindications: Avoid using the device if you have conditions like diabetes, Raynaud’s disease, or poor circulation unless cleared by your doctor.
• Monitor skin reaction: Stop immediately if you notice redness, blistering, or unusual discomfort, and consult a healthcare provider.
• Follow medical advice: Your physician may recommend a specific protocol tailored to your injury or surgery—stick to it.

Tips for Optimal Results

To get the most out of your Breg Polar Care Cube:

• Start early: Begin cold therapy as soon as possible after surgery or injury (ideally within 72 hours) to maximize its anti-inflammatory effects.
• Combine with rest: Pair the therapy with proper immobilization or limited movement to support healing.
• Use a timer: If you tend to lose track of time, set an alarm for 20-30 minutes to avoid overuse.
• Enhance convenience: Consider a smart plug to automate on/off cycles, especially for overnight use (consult your doctor first).
• Stay hydrated: Drinking water supports overall recovery and tissue repair.

Why Choose the Breg Polar Care Cube?

The Breg Polar Care Cube stands out for its reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness. Patients and healthcare providers praise its ability to deliver consistent cold therapy, reducing the need for frequent ice refills or messy makeshift solutions.

For shoulder rehabilitation, its targeted pad design ensures the cold reaches deep into the joint and surrounding tissues, offering relief where it’s needed most. Plus, its portability means you can use it while relaxing at home, making recovery more comfortable and manageable.

Final Thoughts

Using the Breg Polar Care Cube for shoulder treatment is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your recovery experience.

By following the steps outlined—preparing the unit, applying the pad correctly, and adhering to safety guidelines—you can harness the power of cold therapy to alleviate pain and swelling effectively. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you’re unsure about duration or frequency.

With proper use, this device can be a game-changer, helping you get back to your daily activities with less discomfort and a faster healing timeline. Embrace this tool as part of your shoulder rehab strategy, and enjoy the relief it brings!

DME-Direct carries all of the different Breg cold therapy units to help aid in your recovery after an injury or surgery. If you need a brace to compliment your cold therapy machine purchase, we also carry the full line of braces as well from Breg.