12 Best Ice Packs For Knee Pain, Physician-Reviewed In 2024
Specialty: General Practitioner and Aesthetic Medicine SpecialistExperience: 3 yearsDr. Safia Munawar is a Dubai-based GP doctor and a certified aesthetic physician with three years of experience. With a diploma from the Canadian Board of Aesthetic Medicine (CBAM), her areas of interest include cosmetic procedures such as Botox, fillers, mesotherapy, PRP for hair loss, microneedling and chemical peels.
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In This Article
The best ice packs for knee pain can go a long way in preventing your knees from hurting. While some of us might feel knee pain only during the colder months, when the lubricating fluid in the joints gets more dense (1), some may experience it throughout the year. We can feel it while walking, getting up from sleep, or even standing.
Knee pain can affect the quality of one’s life. However, ice packs can alleviate such pains, and that is why we have included a list of ice packs here. Have a look and choose the one that will suit you the best.
Top Picks
12 Best Ice Packs For Knee Pain In 2024: Reviews And Buying Guide
1. Best For Quick Pain Relief :Chattanooga ColPac Cold Therapy
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 19,755 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
This ice pack can give you instant relief from pain. All you have to do is store it in a freezer that is set at 12° F (-11°C) and then apply it to the hurting knee. It will take only 30 minutes to help reduce pain.
Pros
- The flexible body can contour easily to accommodate any part of the body
- Helps treat fever, bruises, sprains and so on
- Non-toxic silica gel filling makes it absolutely safe to use
Cons
- Does not come with a fastening strap
- Seams tend to break open easily
"I got this ice pack for its versatility; it can be wrapped around various joints, so it is great for post-surgery recovery. Adding a cloth barrier helps manage the condensation. It's a good choice overall."
Trivia2. Best Dual-Action :Vive Knee Ice Pack Wrap
Made of latex-free neoprene material, this ice pack wrap for the knee can be used as a hot and cold pack. It comes with three detachable Artic Flex gel packs, of which two cover the front area while one soothes the back of the knee. The cold gel can help reduce inflammation and swelling, while hot treatment can help improve blood circulation and fasten the healing process. For a more detailed review of this product, here’s a video that demonstrates a tester’s experience.
Pros
- Designed to be used for both left and right knee
- Gel packs are reusable and leak-proof
- Comes with adjustable straps
- Machine-washable
Cons
- The cold packs may not last long
- Gel packs can leak if not used with care
3. Best Comfortable:ComfiLife Knee Ice Pack with Wrap – Knee Brace
If your doctor has advised you to try ice and heat therapy for relief from acute pain, then you can have a look at this knee brace. This ice pack is a gel pack that can be used as both a hot and cold pack. It is an adjustable knee brace for you to wear comfortably.
Pros
- Flexible knee ice pack can be used on the knee and elbow
- Kneecap hole on knee brace allows snug fit while making movements easy
- Secure non-slip fit ensures convenient usage
- Durable design provides long-lasting protection without leaking
Cons
- Adjustable straps may not hold the pack in place, causing slippage
- The pack is too small to cover the entire knee for some
Chattanooga ColPac Cold Therapy | Vive Knee Ice Pack Wrap | ComfiLife Knee Ice Pack with Wrap – Knee Brace | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 | - | 1 |
| Dimensions | 7 x 1.75 x 10.75 inches | - | 8.43 x 5.31 x 2.01 inches |
| Weight | 4.1 Pounds | - | 13.26 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 19,755 | 14,016 | 2,340 |
| Price | $9.65 | $26.95 | $19.95 |
4. Best Reusable:Shock Doctor ICE Pack Recovery Compression Knee Wrap Brace
Made with N-Tex neoprene and stretchable material, this cold therapy pack for knees with compression has Z-Grip closures that can hold multiple gel ice packs in place. Its reusable gel pack can be used for both cold and heat therapy. Here’s a review video summarizing the features of this reusable compression icepack.
Pros
- Adjustable straps offer a customized fit
- Lycra pockets ensure that the gel pack remains firmly in place
- Anatomically designed to wrap around the knee and other parts of the body
- Easy to carry anywhere
Cons
- The brace has only one pocket to hold four ice packs, which tend to accumulate at the bottom of the brace
- Using all four ice packs at the same time makes it heavy to use
"This wrap has adjustable sizes for different body types, but I feel velcro closures would make it easier to use. Still, it is durable and has become a staple in my recovery routine. A good investment so far."
5. Best Multipurpose:Knee Ice Pack Wrap by TheraPAQ
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 8,439 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
Are your knees often inflamed and swollen? Here is an ice pack wrap that can help tackle this problem. This knee brace can help you deal with chronic knee pain, allowing you to walk with ease.
Pros
- Can be used for cold and hot therapy
- Flexible ice pack contours to the shape of the knee, even when frozen
- Universal size, fits both knees
- Knee sleeves provide a snug fit, so it stays in place when moving around
Cons
- Gel pack may seem to be of inferior quality
"The wrap stays put, even on the move. I found it quite durable, with a big ice pack for long-lasting relief. It could be more practical for active use, but it is good for supportive cold therapy as well, without keeping you confined to a chair as you receive it."
Quick fact6. Best Chronic Pain Relief :übertherm Knee Ice Pack Wrap with Compression
The brand übertherm believes that cooling without freezing can help your body to recover from an injury or ailment faster. That is why it offers this comfortable compression wrap that can cool the knee and give you therapeutic relief from acute pain.
Pros
- Velcro fastens the pack firmly for a secure fit
- Non-toxic gel is safe to use by anyone
- Ice pillow ensures that the knee is exposed to a cool pack and not a frozen one
- Neoprene material ensures a good fit for both men and women
Cons
- Ice pack tends to fall off the brace easily as it lacks a closure
- Cold and hot therapy last for a short while
"This wrap's velcro straps work well for bigger legs. Even though it doesn't cover my knee all around, it's a good option for consistent coolness and comfort as the gel packs stay cold for a long time."
Point to consider7. Best Versatile:Revix Ice Packs
Get relief from sprains, muscle recovery, surgical procedures, inflammation, sports injuries, and knee pain with the Revix ice pack. The knee ice wrap is filled with a gel that has a lower ice point of -13℉. It stays flexible when frozen and has a plush inner lining with an extra-thick nylon outer cover to prevent condensation.
Pros
- Has adjustable velcro for a comfortable fit
- Multi-functional
- Wide sealed edges
- Storage bag included
- Soft material
Cons
- Cooling may not last long
- May be smaller than expected
"I like that these packs are soft, fit well, and offer cold therapy benefits. I wish they stayed chilly a bit longer, so I suggest you keep a spare on hand for non-stop relief. Overall, a great pick."
8. Best Easy-To-Use:Ohuhu Hot Cold Ice Pack
Looking for a traditional ice pack? If knee braces and sleeves are not your cup of tea, you can stick to this reusable knee ice pack. It is easy to use and can be used by anyone, anywhere.
Pros
- Large cape opening makes the filling of ice cube easy
- Tight-fitting cap eliminates chances of leakage
- The latex-free, waterproof body maintains water temperature for a longer time
- Doubles as shoulder ice pack
- Can be used for both hot and cold therapy
Cons
- Product may lack durability
"These ice bags have been effective for various needs, from minor injuries to icing larger areas. I like the convenient sizes and the fact that they are leak-free and offer reliable relief for cramps. A bit tricky to place properly on certain body parts, but overall, a solid choice."
9. Best In Flexibility:NatraCure Universal Large Gel Cold Pack Ice Wrap
This ice gel pack with a wrap is designed to relieve not just knee pain but joint and arthritis pains in the other parts of the body too. The rectangular cold pack is large and easily covers the knee. With several positive reviews, the wrap ensures that the pack stays in place without slipping.
Pros
- Inner insulating layer on the cryoshield wrap maintains the gel pack’s coldness for long
- Mesh cover on ice pack keeps the skin safe while providing optimum coldness
- Dual straps provide a firm and comfortable fit
Cons
- The product lacks durability
"This ice pack gets the job done, but the strap's a bit short for bigger chests, and the pocket might wear out. A bit bulky, but the velcro straps make it versatile for various injuries. I would recommend it for targeted cold therapy."
10. Best Supportive:The Coldest Water’s The Coldest Knee Ice Pack Wrap
Claiming to be the coldest ice wrap, this brace is designed specially to help the knee recover quickly. Its flexible body enables easy movements without any restriction.
Pros
- Flexible ice pack easily molds around the knee
- Webbing technology ensures better cooling
- Helps reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling
- Climate neutral-certified design
Cons
- Cooling effect does not last long
11. Best Leak-Proof :Bodyprox Ice Pack for Knee
This knee pain relief ice pack comes with a knee brace for added comfort and support. The knee wrap is made of leak-proof, non-toxic PVC material that can be used for a long period effectively. It also has a knee vent in the front so that your knee movements are not restricted. It can hold both cold and hot pads.
Pros
- The gel pad is leak-proof
- Good quality Velcro straps ensure a firm fit
- Non-toxic gel boosts blood circulation
- Knee ice wrap with straps allows it to be adjusted at convenience
Cons
- Fitting may not be as expected
- Buyers with smaller knees might find it to be a tad too big
"This knee wrap has been amazing, doubling as a support brace and a therapy pack. It can be bulky but is still a great option for relieving knee issues. Also, it is easy to use and flexible, which I appreciate."
12. Best Long-Lasting:The Pain Soother Reusable Ice Pack for Knee
If you are looking for an ice pack that can last longer than other packs, then have a look at this pain soother. It claims to last longer than 30 minutes and provides relief to painful knees. It comes with a compression pump that can inflate the gel pack to give you the dual benefits of compression and cold therapy.
Pros
- Can be worn on both knees
- Durable ice packs last long and do not leak
- Velcro fastening helps adjust the brace as per your preference
Cons
- People with small knees might find it difficult to adjust the brace
- Air pressure tends to last only a few uses
"Post-knee replacement, this ice pack wrap has been a relief for me. The compression feature eases pain, fits well, and stays put. The gel packs may not stay cold forever, but they're still convenient for post-op knee care."
How To Choose The Right Ice Pack For Knee Pain?
Consider the following factors when choosing a suitable ice pack for knee pain.
- Material: Check whether the material is insulated enough to keep the pack cool while being breathable. It must be flexible enough to conform to the curves of your body. After being removed from the freezer, it should still be flexible. Also, ensure there are no harmful ingredients. Most ice packs are made of stretchable, neoprene, or nylon material for easy use.
- Design: Some ice packs have velcro attachments, some have adjustable straps, while some have no attachments at all. Choose the right one based on your needs. Ensure the ice pack fits well and check the measurements before buying.
- Durability: Ensure the ice pack is sturdy and long-lasting to endure rough use. Some companies provide specially designed athlete ice packs if you’re an athlete who needs regular cold therapy for your knees. These are composed of high-quality materials and have sturdy steamers, making them quite durable.
- Ease of Use: Choose ice packs that are easy to use and wear for optimal comfort and convenience. Look for portable designs that are compact for easy carrying. You can also choose designs that allow you to move around.
Benefits Of Using Ice Packs For Knee Pains
A cold pack used for knee pains can:
- Numb the pain
- Soothe any inflammation
- Reduce swelling
- Prevent muscle contraction
However, ice packs are not always the solution for knee pain. When you choose the wrong type of ice pack or do not use it correctly, the pain can intensify.
Dr. Safia Munawar, a GP and certified aesthetic physician, says, “Using ice packs is especially helpful when managing swelling, inflammation, and pain around the tendons and joints. Apply the ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes each session, several times a day. You may also complement it by trying other approaches to pain management, such as medications, good rest, exercise, and compression, after speaking to your doctor.”
Different Types Of Ice Packs
Ice packs for the knee can be categorized into the following types.
- Reusable cold compress: Cold compress are ice packs filled with a gel that should be kept in the freezer before use. You can use the packs from straight out of the freezer and place them on your knee. Once done, you can store it again in the freezer to make it ready for the next time.
- Ice bag: This is a simple rubber or plastic bag filled with ice or cold water that acts as a cold compress to provide effective relief for aching knees. These bags are available at regular drug stores.
- Knee wrap: A knee wrap is a compression wrap designed to give complete cooling to the knee. It comes with adjustable straps that keep the wrap firm on the knee so you can move around with ease.
- Knee sleeve: Knee sleeves are like gloves for the knee. They are the thinner version of a knee wrap and can be worn all day long under the clothes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does a cold pack help with an injury?
An ice pack can numb the pain for at least a few minutes. Using an ice pack on the affected area also helps soothe inflammation and stiffness, as well as swelling. Ensure you use it within 24 hours after experiencing pain for maximum effect (2).
2. Should I consult a doctor before using ice packs for knee pain?
If you are recovering from an injury or surgery, seek a doctor’s advice before using ice packs. People with gout or arthritis should also ask their doctor before trying cold pack therapy.
3. How should I care for a knee injury using ice packs?
When you have a knee injury, the first 24 to 72 hours are crucial. It is during this time you can use cold therapy using ice packs to help curb inflammation and swelling (2).
You can then try massaging your knee with some ice. Rub ice directly over the knee for a few minutes. Avoid leaving the ice in one spot for too long, as it may cause ice burns.
4. Can gel ice packs go bad?
Gel-based ice packs come with an expiry date. A regular ice bag can be used as long as it is usable. A gel-filled ice pack can become ineffective after a period of time because of the chemicals present in it. You can check the package of the gel pack to know how long it can be used.
5. How long should I ice a knee?
Although icing alleviates knee pain, it should not be overdone. When in pain, you can apply an ice pack to your knee for not more than twenty to thirty minutes to prevent skin damage from over-icing (3). Stop icing the knee the moment your skin feels numb.
6. Should I use any gel on my knee before using ice packs?
There is no gel as such to be used before putting an ice pack. However, as ice can cause burns when applied directly on the skin, it is recommended that you place a cloth or use a bag to wrap the ice pack in before using it.
7. Is a heat pack better than an ice pack for knee pain?
When you have knee pain with inflammation and stiffness, using an ice pack would be a better option. Heat packs increase blood flow, whereas ice packs decrease blood flow (2).
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, our experienced writer and reviewer of health and wellness products, has compiled this long list of the best ice packs for knee pain after analyzing and comparing various products and tester experiences. She has also mentioned the pros and cons of each product to offer you unbiased information and help you make the right pick. The ice packs for knee pain listed here are versatile and available in different designs. Moreover, Vibha has also answered some common questions to give you a better idea about ice packs.
The Bottom Line
Experiencing knee pain throughout the year can be cumbersome. The best ice packs for knee pain can help make you feel better by reducing the symptoms, ranging from inflammation to muscle swelling and contraction. Ice packs come in different forms, and this article has listed a diverse range of options such as the easy-to-use Chattanooga ColPac Cold Therapy pack, the Vive Knee Ice Pack Wrap with detachable gel inserts, and the stretchable Shock Doctor ICE Pack Knee Wrap Brace. So keep an eye out for the one that works in your favor. Choosing one that promotes blood circulation and contours to your knees can help. Further, taking the advice of a medical professional can help you pick one that suits you the best and relieves the pain effectively.
Infographic: How To Use An Ice Pack The Right Way?
Managing knee pain can be challenging, but an ice pack can come in handy to reduce the pain to a certain extent. However, using the ice pack in a stipulated manner is crucial to prevent the pain from worsening. Read the following infographic to learn how to use an ice pack more precisely.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
References
- Why is Arthritis Worse in the Winter?
https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/arthritis-worse-in-winter-winter.html# - Should You Use Ice or Heat for Knee Pain?
https://www.guthrie.org/blog/should-you-use-ice-or-heat-knee-pain - Ice Vs. Heat: When to Use Which for Aches & Pain
https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2020/nov/ice-vs-heat-when-to-use-which-for-aches-pain/ - The Cold Pack: A Chilly Example of an Endothermic Reaction
https://letstalkscience.ca/educational-resources/stem-in-context/cold-pack-a-chilly-example-endothermic-reaction#
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Read full bio of Dr. Safia Munawar
