"What Is R. I. C. E.?"

Definition: The acronym R.I.C.E. stands for:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation

These four components are prescribed by many health professionals for early treatment of acute soft tissue sports injuries, such as a:

• sprain
• strain
• bone injury

Early Injury Treatment: R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation)

Early Injury Treatment: When to Seek Medical Treatment

Get professional treatment if any injury is severe. A severe injury means having an obvious fracture or dislocation of a joint, prolonged swelling, or prolonged or severe pain.

While many common acute injuries can be controlled with these four simple steps, especially when combined with over-the-counter pain relievers, more serious conditions may require surgery or physical therapy.

_{Source: NIH Pub No. 01-2406, Childhood Sports Injuries, NIAMS}