jeudi 11 octobre 2012

First Aid for Sprains: The RICE Method

By James K Zane


What is the RICE Method?

The RICE method is a basic series of techniques for the treatment of an assortment of injuries, which include sprains, bony injury, and contusions (otherwise known as bruises). It can be useful as immediate treatment and as a form of long-term therapy. It's quick, uncomplicated, and ought to be done right after virtually any sports injury. For our purposes, we're going to be addressing the procedure the way it relates to sprains.

The RICE is actually an acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Certainly helps you to remember, in case you must take care of yourself while inpain. This kind of protocol needs to be employed for not less than 48 hrs after the primary injury, or longer based on the degree of the sprain. Please remember that the RICE method would not replace medical treatment.

The Steps to the RICE Method

Step 1: Rest

Rest basically means quit moving the sprained joint. It is the least complicated and most challenging phase. This is principally correct with athletes, that happen to be already extra susceptible to sprains, since a lot of athletes ignore the pain. It's likewise challenging if it's a joint which is always active, such as with an ankle sprain. Although this may cause you to be more impressive than most, it's not helping the injury.

Step 2: Ice

Use ice, a coldpack, or a rag soaked in ice water on the damaged joint immediately. If making use of ice cubes, make sure they're in a plastic bag or wrapped in a rag as the ice might result in cold-related harm to the skin. It is also essential to remove the cold compress after 15 to 20 minutes and let the sprain to return to a normal temperature once again, also not less than 15-20 minutes. Carry out this routine as frequently as you can, or at a minimum 3 times daily.

Step 3: Compression

Compress the hurt joint with an elastic bandage or wrap. Wrap the joint as firmly and securely as possible, but don't block blood circulation. To keep bloodstream moving correctly, wrap the injured joint looser nearest to your heart. This will let the blood away of the injury to help maintain good circulation. When the sprain has been effectively secured you need to hold the end of the wrapping with something in order that it does not undo as time passes.

Step 4: Elevation

Keep the injured joint elevated above the level of your heart. If you've got a sprained foot, recline and put the injured foot a pillow. In cases where you've got a thumb sprain, lie down and prop up the hand. Only some sprains are easy to raise, however it will be very useful to do this.

How does it work?

The primary function of the RICE method is to protect yourself from swelling. Any time a joint is hurt, the surrounding tissues are weakened. This brings about some internal bleeding and some accumulation of fluid as the body attempts to avert more severe damage. Sadly, that same fluid build-up ends up with soreness and tightness of a sprain. The swelling might also increase the recovery time for sprains. As an alternative, adhere to the RICE method for the speediest, least painful recuperation from a sprain.




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