A: A: R.I.C.E. stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation and is a common acronym used to describe treatment of acute injuries such as traumatic ankle sprains and bruising. The acronym R.I.C.E.D. is also used; the “D” indicating Drugs for pain reduction or inflammation. Ice, or cryotherapy has a role not only in acute injuries, but also in overuse injuries related to running, particularly in the initial inflammatory phase that occurs in the first 24 hours after injury. For runners, this is the 24 hours after each run that irritates the injury, or sets up an acute inflammatory phase.
Inflammation has several characteristics; heat, pain and swelling are the most noticeable. In simplified terms, ice helps with the heat, and compression and elevation control swelling. The overall effect is to reduce inflammation and usually pain. Runners with overuse injuries will usually benefit from RICE, and at the very least, ice pack application to the injury site after each run. Be careful never to apply the icepack directly to the skin, always place a layer, for example, a shirt or kitchen towel between the ice pack and your skin. Keep the icepack on the injury for 20 minutes. If you notice skin irritation or reduced sensation at the injury site for extended periods after ice application, stop and seek medical advice. As with all injuries, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
Dr. Nick Brown
Dr. Brown is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at The University of Texas.
