What is the RICE technique? Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation rest, ice, compression, elevation. The RICE technique is the gold standard for the treatment of acute sports injuries such as ankle sprains. Gao Di, Department of Traumatology, Shenzhen Pingle Orthopaedic Hospital Proper use of RICE techniques can reduce vascular bleeding, help relieve swelling and pain, help early healing and shorten recovery time. 1. Rest (Rest) The key is to make the injured limb protected and get rest by limiting the activities. The most important thing is not to put weight on the injured ankle and not to continue to step on the ground and walk. How long should I rest? It is usually necessary to rest the injured part for 1-2 days. However, if a more serious injury occurs, a hospital visit is required. In this case, you may need to use crutches, splints or plaster supports for protection, and need to rest for a longer period of time. 2, Ice (Ice) should be used as soon as possible, the sooner the recovery will help. Specific use: Do not directly touch the ice to the skin. Use a towel or clothing wrapped in ice packs before applying ice. If you cannot find ice, use a bag of frozen chestnut rice or frozen peas. So sometimes even a glass of cold water will do. How long to use? Each ice pack is usually applied for about 15-20 minutes, then the ice pack is removed and rested for 15-20 minutes, which can be repeated several times. In the 1-2 days after the damage, you should use ice as much as possible. 3, compression (Compression) Compression techniques can provide additional support to protect the injured area. One of the most effective is to use a compression bandage to wrap the injured area. Be careful not to wrap too tightly, so as not to cause local tissue necrosis. When you notice pale, cold skin at the end of an extremity, such as a finger or toe, the bandage may be too tightly wrapped and needs to be removed immediately for attention. Non-medical professionals are advised to use compression techniques with caution. 4. Elevation (Elevation) Elevation of the affected limb is very important. After the injury, place the injured part as high as possible above the level of the heart. Special reminder: late stage of foot and ankle sprain (usually about 3-4 weeks) should pay attention to change from RICE (rice) to MICE (mouse) principle, i.e. rest rest to movement exercise.