Cold Compression

R.I.C.E - Rest Ice Compression Elevation

RICE has been the standard of care for sprains, strains and soft tissue inflammation for a long time.

REST

When injured, give your body a rest. Take time off from the activities that caused the soreness or injury.

ICE

Icing (often called cryotherapy) the injured or hurt area is beneficial in multiple ways. First, the cold will numb the pain and reduce swelling. Icing will decrease the blood flow to the injured area, which can help decrease inflammation, pain and muscle spasm. Second, applying ice will decrease the temperature of the injured tissue and thereby lower cell metabolism. This helps the tissue survive the initial injury, prevent tissue death and recover faster.

COMPRESSION

Ice alone works great, but combining ice and compression is even better!
First, wrapping an ice bag tightly (but not too tight) will be even colder, and colder faster than simply placing the ice bag on the injured area. Compression also helps to prevent fluids from accumulating around the injury and excessive swelling. 

ELEVATION

Keep the injured or sore body part above hear level. Why? Elevating a foot or ankle for example lowers the blood pressure in the affected area, and allows for drainage of inflammatory exudate.

Ice Compression Therapy

Ice compression therapy, also known as cryotherapy, is a treatment technique that involves the use of cold temperatures to reduce pain and inflammation in injured or sore muscles and joints.

This therapy is widely used in sports medicine and rehabilitation to aid recovery from injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises. Ice compression therapy involves the application of a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area.

The cold temperature causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the area and decreasing inflammation. This, in turn, helps to reduce pain and swelling, and promote healing. Compression is also an important aspect of ice compression therapy. Compression helps to increase the pressure on the affected area, which can further help to reduce inflammation and swelling.

The use of compression also helps to prevent the accumulation of fluid in the area, which can lead to further swelling and pain. Ice compression therapy can be used in a variety of ways, depending on the type of injury and the severity of the pain and inflammation.

For example, ice compression therapy can be used immediately following an injury, such as a sprained ankle, to reduce swelling and pain. It can also be used on a regular basis to help manage chronic conditions, such as arthritis or tendinitis. To perform ice compression therapy, a cold compress or ice pack is typically applied to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times per day.

Compression can be applied using a compression bandage or wrap, which should be snug but not too tight. Ice compression therapy is generally safe and effective when used properly. However, there are some situations in which ice compression therapy should be avoided. For example, ice compression therapy should not be used on open wounds or areas with poor circulation. It should also be avoided in individuals with cold sensitivity or conditions such as Raynaud's disease.

Ice compression therapy is a simple and effective treatment technique that can help to reduce pain and inflammation in injured or sore muscles and joints. It is widely used in sports medicine and rehabilitation to aid recovery from injuries, and can also be used to manage chronic conditions. If you are experiencing pain or inflammation, talk to your healthcare provider to determine if ice compression therapy is right for you.