I bought an ice machine, but it was a pain to keep refilling it. I did great with gel ice packs...they stay cold a long time. I really thought I'd love the ice machine, but ended up preferring the ice packs. MY LTKR was 6 months ago. Feeling great. It still hurts some, but they say it takes a year. Hoping to get the other knee done in a few months. I was worried sick about the first one, but it really wasn't that bad. Having help for a few weeks is essential tho.