Don't let injuries get you down. Many common sports
injuries or overuse syndromes can be managed
conservatively right from home. General treatment
of most pains and sprains consists of using
the
R.I.C.E. method. Rest, Ice, Compression, and
Elevation.
In most instances, an over the counter
anti-inflammatory is also very effective in
reducing the pain and inflammation in an injured
joint. The use of these medicines can dramatically
decrease recovery time as well as reducing pain
during recuperation. However, always check with
your physicians prior to taking any medication.The
last consideration in the conservative management
of most sports injuries is time. The ability to
allow the human body to undergo its natural healing
process is very important to the management of
these acute injuries. Most patients unfortunately,
re-aggravate their injuries by attempting to
restart activity too soon. This is not to say that
strict rest is necessary, but along with using
the
R.I.C.E. method
for 3-4 days, it is important to modify activity to
allow for adequate healing time before resuming any
exercises or activities which will significantly
irritate the already injured area.
REST
Rest,
obviously, means simply taking it easy to
take some pressure and strain off of the
affected joint or limb.
ICE
Ice is a
very effective tool especially when
swelling is present. Most sprains whether
of the upper or lower extremity respond
very well to some treatment with ice.The
best duration of treatment is usually 15-20
minutes several times a day. This helps to
minimize any swelling and relieve the
discomfort that is associated with this
swelling.
COMPRESSION
ELEVATION
Elevation is
very helpful in minimizing swelling. The
swelling process can increase pain and can
cause distortion of the normal joint
anatomy, thereby prolonging the recovery
period.