PRICE: Management of Acute Injuries

What happens when you suffer from an acute injury? Do you know how to act when an injury that has occurred within the last 48-72 hours and has not gotten any better? Here, we will try to explain the PRICE method, which is considered to be one of the most appropriate ways to manage an acute injury. But what does PRICE stand for? PRICE is an acronym that means: Protection Rest Ice Compression Elevation.

Protection

The protection stage is designed to avoid any further damage. The level of protection and tools required is dependant on the injury, but generally speaking, any protection method will support the joint while recovery takes place. Some of the most well known protection tools are bandages, splints, tape and braces.

Rest

During the rest stage, resting periods are balanced with a rehabilitation plan. This process will mimic the natural mechanical strains imposed on the injured structure and promote healing in a functional and optimal fashion.

Ice

Ice stage is probably the most known out of all PRICE. It has always been used traditionally, and it is an essential part of the healing process. Ice reduces pain, spasms, blood flow, and swelling. All of this helps relax the affected structure, which results in a faster recovery.

Compression/Elevation

The main purpose of compression and elevation is to reduce the swelling and limit blood flow to the area when not icing the affected area. This aids introduce fresh blood to the affected area, hence bringing fresh nutrients for the healing process, and getting rid of the debris from the injured site. WARNING: Never compress and elevate simultaneously, as this can compromise blood flow to the affected area!

Every injury is different! PRICE is by no means a “one fits all” solution for every injury. Every injury, and the time it takes to heal, is unique. If you got an injury you want to treat, give us a call today!

How Can PhysioChiroWellness Help?

At PhysioChiroWellness Integrated Health Centre our highly-skilled practitioners work together to create fully integrated health solutions that may include physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, acupuncture, naturopathy, medical aesthetics amongst others. Our professionals will work together towards achieving an optimal health for all our patients through a holistically approach when treating any condition or pain they may present. This service is provided in our Mississauga, Newmarket, & Vaughan clinics and can be booked at any time.

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PRICE: Management of Acute Injuries