RICE Principle
Rest – prevents further aggravation and swelling of the injury. a. crutches may be used if mobility if painful
b. should have as little activity as possible for injury
Ice – will constrict blood vessels to help reduce and/or prevent swelling.
a. treatment time should be 15 minutes on and 2 hours minimum time before re-applying ice
b. continue for first 72 hours after initial injury c. treatment will be done at least 2 times daily while at school and should be done at least 2 times in the evening
Compression – helps to reduce and/or prevent swelling. a. wrap injured area with ACE wrap to control swelling
b. always wrap from the bottom of the injured area to past the top of the injury to prevent pooling of swelling below the injured area c. ACE wraps should be taken off before going to bed and then put back on upon waking
d. HEAT SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR THE FIRST 72 HOURS FOLLOWING INJURY
Elevation – gravity will help to reduce and/or prevent swelling.
a. raise the injured body part while applying ice to the area
b. injured area must be above the level of the heart or hips c. elevate injured area with pillows or blankets
d. elevation should continue while the athlete is sleeping
