Advice & tips : PRICE advice

Early (immediate) Management of Acute Soft Tissue Injuries (in the first 72 hours)

If you have sustained a soft tissue injury from sports or direct trauma, the advice within the first 72 hours is to follow the “PRICE” Guidelines.

“P” PROTECTION

It is important  to protect the injured tissues from undue stress which may disrupt the healing process, which includes abstaining from a sport until healing has occurred. Protection may be applied by a plaster cast, strapping, splints, slings, the use of crutches or bedrest.

“R” REST

Rest is important  to promote the early part of the healing process and to protect the newly formed repair tissue. Controlled exercise / movement of the injured part to provide the stresses necessary for the correct alignment
of the healing tissues, must be carefully balanced, and your physiotherapist can advise you in this.

“I” ICE

Ice is the most common means by which cryotherapy (or cold therapy) is applied.
Ice is used in an attempt to limit the damage caused by the injury and to help control inflammation and reduce pain. This is most commonly done by applying a bag of crushed ice/ice pack in a damp towel to the injured area for 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the area, every 2 hours.

“C” COMPRESSION

Compression is applied to limit the amount of swelling in an area. This can be done with compressive bandages, such as tubigrip, or other specialised braces. Care must be taken in their usage to avoid causing uneven compression or aggravation to the injured part. Compression is best applied under the supervision of a professional.

“E” ELEVATION

Elevation of the injured part lowers the pressure in local blood vessels and helps to limit the
bleeding and reduce the swelling and therefore, prevents secondary complications.

With all of the above advice, this is only a guideline, and specifics of its application depend on the individual and the severity of the injury. When in doubt, ask a physiotherapist!