Let’s talk ice machines after ACL surgery — because trust me, you’ll be icing a lot. And not all options are created equal.
I’ve had four knee surgeries myself (only one ACL, thankfully), and I’ve tried everything from cheap freezer packs to top-end machines. So here’s the honest truth, based on experience — not just sales talk.
✅ My Top Pick: Game Ready
If budget isn’t an issue — Game Ready wins. No contest.
It combines:
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Ice-cold water circulation
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Active compression
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A proper wrap that covers your whole knee, not just part of it
The compression helps push swelling out, the cold goes deeper than a standard ice pack, and you can adjust the settings depending on how sore or swollen your knee is feeling.
💡 I used it after my last two surgeries — after trying literally everything else that didn’t work. I never took a single painkiller thanks to the Game Ready. It’s not just hype. It genuinely helps.
🧊 My Top Game Ready Tip
Here’s something I recommend to all my ACL clients using a Game Ready (and it’s in my guide too):
Melt and freeze small blocks of ice in takeaway tubs or sandwich bags — that way, you only need to replace the ice 2–3 times per day, not constantly.
Let’s be honest — you’re not the one doing it. It’s your partner, friend, or any poor soul helping you up and down all day. This tip makes life way easier for them!
⚠️ What About Cheaper Ice Machines?
A lot of people go for the CryoCuff (Aircast) — it’s more affordable and does an okay job, but for me personally? Not great.
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The knee wrap is too small to give full coverage
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The water doesn’t stay cold enough, especially if you’re using it multiple times a day
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There’s no compression, so you’re missing a key benefit
It’s better than nothing, but doesn’t come close to what Game Ready can do in terms of swelling and pain control.
❄️ What About Just Using Ice Packs?
Good old-fashioned freezer ice packs will do the job short-term — but expect:
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Melting fast
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Getting everything wet
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Not staying cold for long
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Constantly needing refreezing
If it’s week 1 post-op and you’re icing 4–5 times a day, this gets old really fast. Still, it’s fine if you’re on a tight budget — just keep a few packs on rotation.
💰 Can You Rent a Game Ready?
Yes — and honestly, this is the best way to go if buying one isn’t realistic.
You can rent Game Ready machines for the first few weeks post-op. It’s not cheap, but if you’re struggling with pain or swelling, or you just want to get your range of motion back quicker — it’s 100% worth it.
Final Thoughts
So… are ice machines worth it after ACL surgery?
✅ If you can rent a Game Ready — yes. It’s the gold standard.
⚠️ CryoCuff? Fine, but don’t expect miracles.
❄️ Ice packs? They work — but they’re messy and high-maintenance.
Whatever you choose, just remember: controlling swelling early helps everything else — your movement, your strength, and even your confidence.
Want to Stop Guessing Your Way Through ACL Rehab?
👉 Grab the Complete ACL Recovery Guide here
It’s a complete recovery system — helping you prep for surgery, then guiding you day-by-day with exactly what to do and when. Includes regular testing so you can safely progress without guessing, full video demos, gym programming, and everything you wish your rehab had from the start.