Ice? Hot topic, should you?

RICE was the standard practice for injuries for years. Current research suggest that icing an injury delays healing and can hinder the recovery process. In my clinical experience Icing has been great in reducing pain, reducing inflammation and helping my patients feel better. I do recommend ice in the early acute phase of healing and I dose with applying ice 10-15 minutes every waking hour for acute pain, and 10 -15 minutes 2-3 times per day post use of the injured area or in the subacute healing phase (4 days to six weeks post injury). Active recovery with early mobilization and movement of the injured body part as tolerated with accompanied cold therapy/ice is the best medicine. Consult with your healthcare provider and decide what is best for your personal recovery. I am always here to help.