An updated way to treat sprains and strains
The P.O.L.I.C.E.
One thing it’s missing?
Rest, a component of the long-usedR.I.C.E.method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation).
Some healthcare practitioners now consider P.O.L.I.C.E.
an advanced and favored approach.
This article describes how each approach differs and why the P.O.L.I.C.E.
method may be the better option if you’re faced with an acute injury.
Why R.I.C.E.
Was Recommended
Under the R.I.C.E.
Ice helps by reducing pain andinflammation.
Elevation and compression, in turn, help reduce swelling and the build-up of fluid around the injury.
How to Treat a Sports Injury with R.I.C.E.
Technique
The Problem With R.I.C.E.
technique makes sense, it has a few shortcomings.
One study published in theJournal of Athletic Trainingfound a lack of solid evidence that the R.I.C.E.
treatment for ankle sprains leads to better outcomes.
In fact, some experts believe that applying ice right after an injury impedes the normal healing process.
Another problem with the R.I.C.E.
Resting too long can lead to a loss of musclestrengthand flexibility and end up delaying healing.
Why P.O.L.I.C.E.
May Be Better
Today, some healthcare providers are recommending the P.O.L.I.C.E.
method instead of R.I.C.E.
But, after that, you should start gentle motions while maintaining the protection of the injured area.
Optimum Loading
This describes the gentle motion you could start while in the protection phase.
Progressive Loading vs.
Resting
Progressive loading can promote healing by encouraging the appropriate level of movement of a joint or limb.
This prevents joint and muscle stiffness (and even muscle thinning) that can occur with prolonged rest.
Your healthcare provider can help demonstrate thebest ways to apply ice to an injury.
They can also teach you how to make your own ice pack.
you could also use a product like Ice Tape to cool and compress the injury at the same time.
Elevation
An injured ankle or knee can be elevated by placing it on a stack of pillows.
An injury to your elbow or wrist requires you to elevate your entire arm.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
The P.O.L.I.C.E.
This is especially true if an injured joint or limb needs extra protection.
Summary
The P.O.L.I.C.E.
method of treating an acute injury deviates slightly from the traditional R.I.C.E.
method of rest, ice program, compression, and elevation.
method, “rest” is replaced by injury “protection” and “optimal loading” with movement.
This helps keep your injured limb mobile while decreasing stiffness and speeding recovery.
