Many people still recommend RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for injuries. I have not been using the RICE method in my practice for years, as research has shown it is ineffective in dealing with many injuries.
RICE was developed by Dr. Gabe Mirkin in 1978 and became the standard for injury care. More recent research showing that ice can slow healing and rest can cause muscle wasting and reduced range of motion along with fear avoidance of movement, led Dr. Mirkin to recind his support of this treatment in 2014.
I have been using the PEACE & LOVE method (Protection, Elevation, Avoid anti-inflammatories, Compression, Education, and Load, Optimism, Vascularization, Exercise) and recently heard about the PACE method (Protect, Activate, Cool, and Elevate). PACE as an acronym may be easier to remember and may help the general public put the method into practice.
Research reveals some fascinating information about how inflammation works in our body. Inflammation is our body's natural response to injury and is how the body heals itself within an acute situation.
Chronic inflammation, or long term, sustainted inflammation, is known to be responsible for many chronic and possilbly life threatening illnesses and pain. So, inflammation isn't all bad, as it is necessary for healing of acute injuries.
Dr. Raj Bhardwaj speaks with host Marcy Markusa about the evolving approach to treating injuries like ankle sprains and sore shoulders.
Listen to this CBC interveiw for an approach that could lead to better recovery.
