RICE (medicine)

RICE is a mnemonic acronym for four elements of a treatment regimen commonly used for soft tissue injuries: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. While it was hoped it would reduce pain and swelling, evidence is insufficient for benefits. Early movement is more often recommended as of 2020, with the acknowledgment that occasionally short term immobilization is needed for pain.

The protocol was used to treat sprains, strains, cuts, bruises, and other similar injuries. There are concerns it may impair or delay healing.

The mnemonic was introduced by Gabe Mirkin in 1978. He withdrew his support of this regimen in 2014 after learning of the role of inflammation in the healing process. Ice has been used for injuries since at least the 1960s, following it use to successfully reattach a 12-year-old's limb. There are variations which emphasize other actions, including PRICE with the addition of protection, and POLICE with the addition of optimal loading. However, these variations similarly lack enough evidence to be broadly recommended. Provided by Wikipedia