Uncooked rice can help save your phone if you drop it in a puddle, but another type of RICE can help your feet and ankles in the event you suffer an injury. You may have heard the term RICE before, but what does it stand for, and how can it help you with the healing process? We answer those questions in today’s blog.
What Does RICE Stand For?
RICE is a medical acronym that is told to patients who suffer minor to mild acute injuries, like an ankle sprain or a bruised toe. RICE stands for:
Rest – After acute trauma, give your injury 24-48 hours of rest or limited movement. If you don’t give the area some rest, it can slow the healing process and allow more inflammation to set in. It’s best to stay off your feet for a day or two after an injury.
Ice – Icing an injury is a great way to help prevent swelling. When swelling is reduced, blood can flow to and from the injury site more easily, speeding up recovery time. Wrap some ice in a cloth and indirectly apply it to your skin. It should feel cool but not painful to the touch. Do this for 10-15 minutes a couple times a day in the wake of a foot or ankle injury
Compression – Compression is another way to help prevent localized swelling after an injury. A soft wrap around the foot, ankle or toe can help protect the area against further injury by helping to keep it stabilized, but it will also work to reduce swelling in the area.
Elevation – Elevating the injury will help to minimize swelling by allowing fluid to drain away from the area. Try to keep your foot above the height of your heart, but any elevation is helpful. By elevating the injured area, gravity will naturally help to limit localized swelling.