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Reviewed 9/1/2023
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Treating sports injuries. Mild strains and sprains can benefit from initial treatment at home using the R.I.C.E. method.

Using the R.I.C.E. method is a good first treatment for mild sprains or strains. The benefits include pain relief, reduced inflammation and faster healing. 

Start R.I.C.E. right after a mild sprain or strain. Continue for at least 48 hours. 

Keep scrolling to learn how to use R.I.C.E. 

REST
<ul>
 <li>Reduce your activity as needed.</li>
 <li>Use crutches if you need to.</li>
</ul>
ICE
<ul>
 <li>Put ice on right away to keep the swelling down.</li>
 <li>Use ice for 20 minutes at a time, 4 to 8 times a day.</li>
 <li>You can use a cold pack, an ice bag, or a plastic bag filled with crushed ice and wrapped in a towel.</li>
</ul>
COMPRESSION
<li>Compress the injured area to keep the swelling down and support the injured area.</li>
<li>You can use elastic wraps, air casts, splints or special boots.</li>
ELEVATION
<ul>
 <li>Keep the injured area elevated on a pillow above the level of your heart, if possible. This will help reduce swelling.</li>
</ul>
GET HELP IF:
<ul>
 <li>The injury causes severe pain, swelling or numbness.</li>
 <li>You can't put any weight on the injured area.</li>
 <li>The pain or ache of an old injury is accompanied by increased swelling or joint abnormality or instability.</li>
 <li>Pain or other symptoms worsen after using R.I.C.E.</li>
</ul>
NEED CRUTCHES AFTER AN INJURY? FIND OUT HOW TO USE THEM SAFELY.
<a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/HealthInfo/Story.aspx?StoryId=83e1eceb-3e79-4a19-b6d5-dd2f57bf1af4">GET SAFETY TIPS</a>
Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
</div>
Sources
<ul>
 <li>American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. "Sprained Ankle." <a href="https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/sprained-ankle" target="_blank">https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/sprained-ankle</a>.</li>
 <li>American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. "Sprains, Strains and Other Soft-Tissue Injuries." <a href="https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/sprains-strains-and-other-soft-tissue-injuries" target="_blank">https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/sprains-strains-and-other-soft-tissue-injuries</a>.</li>
 <li>National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. "Sports Injuries: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take." <a href="https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/sports-injuries/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take" target="_blank">https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/sports-injuries/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take</a>.</li>
</ul>

Treating sports injuries

Learn more about the R.I.C.E. method.