Injury Management

DAFC advice: Treating the injury R.I.C.E.D
A soft tissue injury such as a sprain, strain or bruise should immediately be treated with the R.I.C.E.D. procedure.
Rest / Ice / Compression / Elevation / Diagnosis

Treating the injury R.I.C.E.D

A soft tissue injury such as a sprain, strain or bruise should immediately be treated with the R.I.C.E.D. procedure:

· Rest
Rest reduces further damage.
Avoid as much movement of the injured part as possible to limit further injury. Don't put any weight on the injured part.

· Ice
Ice cools the tissue and reduces pain, swelling and bleeding.
On the injured area place ice wrapped in a damp towel. Apply ice for 20 minutes every 2 hours for the first 48 hours.

· Compression
Firm bandaging helps to reduce bleeding and swelling.
Ensure that the bandaging is not so tight that it cuts off circulation or causes tingling or pain past the bandage. Between ice treatments bandage the injury.

· Elevation
Elevate the injured area to stop bleeding and swelling.
For comfort and support raise the injured area on a pillow.

· Diagnosis
Consult a medical professional such as a doctor or physiotherapist especially if you are worried about the injury, or if the pain or swelling gets worse. Also seek treatment if the pain or swelling has not gone down significantly within 48 hours