Does RICE actually work for injuries?
R.I.C.E. is designed to reduce the inflammation that occurs after an acute injury, which can be great depending on how much swelling there is. The problem is, blood flow (inflammation is an increase in blood flow as a reaction to an injury) is how our body heals.
What does RICE treatment stand for?
Rest, ice, compression and elevation
RICE/Full name
What injury can be treated with the RICE procedure?
The RICE method is best able to treat mild or moderate injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises. If a person has tried the RICE method but experiences no improvement, or if they are unable to put any weight on the injured area, they should seek medical attention.
Is RICE the best treatment?
R.I.C.E. might be the more common acronym taught for immediate treatment of acute injuries, but studies are suggesting it’s not the most effective. Lots of evidence has been found to suggest that rest is detrimental to the healing process.
How long should you do RICE therapy?
Remember, RICE is first aid — not an ongoing treatment. Note, RICE shouldn’t be used indefinitely. Stop after the first two days, unless otherwise directed by a doctor. If you keep using RICE you may delay the natural inflammation and healing process.
How do you heal a sprained ankle overnight?
Self-care
- Rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort.
- Ice. Use an ice pack or ice slush bath immediately for 15 to 20 minutes and repeat every two to three hours while you’re awake.
- Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the ankle with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops.
- Elevation.
How long should the RICE treatment be administered?
Apply the ice or cold pack for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 or more times a day. After 48 to 72 hours, if swelling is gone, apply heat to the area that hurts. Do not apply ice or heat directly to the skin. Place a towel over the cold or heat pack before applying it to the skin.
Why RICE is bad for injuries?
Dr Baquie said he often sees ankles at six, eight or 10 weeks’ post-injury when RICE has not been used. ‘And they’re stiff, they’re swollen and they’re sore,’ he said. ‘So the inflammatory phase can be counterproductive, as the healing is non-specific to joint lining and within the joint itself. ‘