Acute Injuries – What do I do when I get injured?

With any acute traumatic injury (muscle tear, ankle sprain) the body responds in a specific way. Initially, the healing process starts off with the inflammatory phase. The body sends many inflammatory cells and substrates to the injured area which is associated with swelling and pain. Although this is a necessary part of the healing phase, it is imperative that we control this phase as best as possible by following the PRICER regime.

PRICER Regime:

Protection

Try and protect the injured area through strapping or immobilization. For instance, if the ankle is painful to walk on, a temporary walking aid (crutch) will help to limit the weight bearing through the area

Rest

The body needs time to heal. Rest is very important to allow the body to protect itself initially.

Ice

The use of ice will limit the amount of swelling in the injured area. It is recommended to use an ice pack for 20 minutes five times per day.

Compression

There are many specialized bandages for this purpose. If nothing is available, try and use a stocking for this purpose.

Elevation

Elevation will improve the blood flow through the system, which will help with the re-absorption of the inflammation.

Referral

If the injury is severe, or there continued swelling and pain, the injury needs to be assessed by a healthcare professional, such as physician or physiotherapist. It is recommended that you see your physiotherapist as soon as possible after the injury to assess the appropriate management