R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)

What is R.I.C.E.?

R.I.C.E. is an acronym (a word coined from first letters) for the most important elements - rest, ice, compression and elevation - in first aid for many injuries. This acronym appears frequently in literature related to injury prevention and rehabilitation related to athletic injuries. The word R.I.C.E. is used to jog the memory when athletic trainers are faced with such injuries as contusions, sprains, strains, dislocations or uncomplicated fractures.

REST

Stop using the injured part, and rest it as soon as you realize an injury has taken place. Continued exercise or other activity could cause further, more extensive injury, delay healing, increase pain and stimulate bleeding. Use crutches to avoid bearing weight on injuries of the foot, ankle, knee or leg. Use splints for injuries of the hand, wrist, elbow or arm. After medical treatment, the injured part may require immobilization with splints or a cast to keep the area at rest until it heals.

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