Treat Injuries with R.I.C.E.

Related Information: • Foot Care • Total Ankle Replacement • Is It a Sprain or a Strain? • Treat Injuries with R.I.C.E. • Sprains, Strains and Other Foot Problems

For minor sprains and strains, the RICE treatment is often all that is needed.

• Rest: Reduce or stop using the injured area for 48 hours. If you have a leg injury, you may need to stay off of it completely.
• Ice: Put an ice pack on the injured area for 20 minutes at a time, 4 to 8 times per day. Use a cold pack, ice bag, or a plastic bag filled with crushed ice that has been wrapped in a towel.
• Compression: Compression of an injured ankle, knee, or wrist may help reduce the swelling. These include bandages such as elastic wraps, special boots, air casts and splints. Ask your doctor which one is best.
• Elevation: Keep the injured area elevated above the level of the heart. Use a pillow to help elevate an injured limb.

Source: National Institutes of Health