PRICER & HARM

Application of Cold Therapy

Ice Gel TreatmentThe process for using cold therapy as initial treatment for soft tissue injuries is based on the principles of PRICER and ‘avoid HARM’. These are most important in the 48-72 hours following the injury and provide the tissue with the best possible environment for recovery, ultimately leading to a quicker return back to sport or activity.

Implement PRICER

    
Ice Gel PRICER

Protection - Protect injured tissue from undue stress to limit inflammation and promote healing.
Ice Gel PRICER

Rest – Avoid activities that increase blood flow which may lead to increased swelling and pain.
Ice Gel PRICER

Ice - Limit damage and reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. Bring out bruising.
Ice Gel PRICER

Compression - Apply a firm bandage to limit swelling, that does not restrict circulation or cause additional pain.
Ice Gel PRICER

Elevation – Reduces/limits the swelling, reduces the pressure in the local blood vessels and helps to limit the bleeding into the area. Elevation above the heart is ideal.
Ice Gel PRICER

Refer – Refer on to specialist management i.e. qualified medical practitioner.
 
Avoid HARM

In the first 48-72 hours, avoid:

Ice Gel PRICER

Heat – Increases blood flow and swelling.
Ice Gel PRICER

Alcohol Drinking – Alcohol increases blood flow and swelling, and may lead to injury aggravation.
Ice Gel PRICER

Reinjury – Protect the joint until it has healed adequately.
Ice Gel PRICER

Massage – Promotes bloodflow and swelling. Massage can increase damage if begun too early.



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