Treating an acute injury

In the past, injuries were treated with R.I.C.E. – Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Research indicates that there is a better approach: PEACE and LOVE!

PROTECT: avoid aggravating the injury, rest for 1-3 days if needed based on pain

ELEVATE: to control swelling, as it can slow healing

AVOID ANTI-INFLAMMATORIES: our bodies have a built-in healing process, and inflammation is part of this process. Anti-inflammatory medications and ice can slow down this healing process

COMPRESSION: wraps or taping can help to decrease swelling in a joint

EDUCATE: your therapist should educate you on the benefit of staying active during recovery. Passive modalities (quick fixes) should be avoided as they can be counterproductive, and your body is an expert on healing

LOAD: Adding load or mechanical stress helps with tissue healing and remodeling and should be performed within tolerance

OPTIMISM: Staying positive and believing in your body’s ability to heal itself speeds recovery

VASCULARIZATION: performing cardio improves circulation to the healing tissues and should be performed within pain tolerance

EXERCISE: long term outcomes improve when someone returns to exercise early after injury, as long as pain guides progression

Dubois B, Esculier J.  Soft-tissue injuries simply need PEACE and LOVE.  British Journal of Sports Medicine 2020;54:72-73.