Health Articles

R.I.C.E. for Injuries

If you suffer from a sports related injury, use R.I.C.E. The term stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Rest - Take a break from exercise or any type of movement that may stress the injured area. A minor injury should be rested for one or two days, while more severe injuries may need longer.

Ice - Ice the affected area. Icing reduces pain, limits swelling and bleeding, and encourages rapid healing. Wrap ice in a towel to avoid direct contact with the skin.

Compress - Compress the injury with a stretch bandage. Make sure not to wrap it too tight, just enough to support the injured area comfortably.

Elevate - Elevate the limb. If possible, try to keep the injured part above the level of the heart. At the very least, try to keep it higher than the hips. This helps limit swelling and also prevents movement of the area that is injured.

Weight Training Tip

Proper breathing technique is extremely important during training. Breathing supplies oxygen to the muscle cells, which is essential for muscle contraction, and helps deliver energy and build the muscle. Make sure to exhale when you lift the weight and inhale when you lower it.

Stress Management Tip

Pick one thing you have been putting off such as scheduling an appointment, running an errand, or returning a phone call, and do it immediately. Taking care of one nagging responsibility can be revitalizing and can improve your overall attitude.