Rest - from the activity causing the injury, as movement is likely to cause increased
bleeding and more tissue damage.
Ice - applied to the injured tissues. Alternatively, a commercial freezer gel packs with a
wet towel. The purpose of this is to reduce the pain and swelling. The application of ice
should be for 10-15 minutes, and depending on the severity of injury and consequent
swelling, may have to be applied several times. Never apply the ice directly on the skin.
Compression - applying a firm, elastic, non-adhesive bandage to the injured area. It is
important to note when the bandage is too tight, for instance, when numbness, tingling,
coldness or signs of digits (fingers or toes) furthest from the heart becoming pale or blue.
Elevation - raising the injured area above the level of the heart, is recommended. Again,
this is to decrease pain and swelling as well as bleeding.
RICER Another standard care for acute stage of healing:
Rest
Ice
Compression
Elevation
Refer to appropriate health care professional for advice.
RICES-S Another standard care for acute stage of healing:
R = Rest (place the Injury a state of physiological rest & stay off of it)
I = Ice (apply cold therapy to the involved site)
I = Immobilization (movement or motion will worsen an existing injury)
C = Compression (use a support wrap or elastic ace bandage)
E = The immediate application of electromagnetic therapies and the Elevation of the
involved area up to or above the heart. The elevation of the involved area helps to manage
the swelling by keeping the involved area in a raised position, which allowing gravity to
help remove the unwanted swelling and/or edema.
S = Treat for shock
S = Correctly fit a support product such as splint, crutches, etc.
*Always consult a doctor if pain and swelling continue or if the condition doesn’t make the
progress you normally expect to see or have experienced.
PRICE Another standard care for acute stage of healing:
Protect - Support the injured part by taping or strapping it to protect against further
damage.
Rest
Ice
Compression - Compression bandage will help reduce swelling, make sure you use a
stretchy bandage and do not apply it too tightly.
Elevation
MICE One of the most common treatment used in treating sports injuries, which stands for:
Movement - (When the injury happens to a joint, then movement is replaced by rest)
