Introducing PEACE & LOVE: A Modern Approach to Soft Tissue Injuries
As the field of medicine continues to evolve, so too do our approaches to injury care and rehabilitation. What was once considered standard practice may now be outdated in light of new research and evidence. One such example is the traditional recommendation of RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) for managing acute injuries. Recent advancements in the field have led to the development of more effective strategies in the area of soft tissue management, thus how the new acronym PEACE & LOVE was born.
PEACE & LOVE represents a more comprehensive and up-to-date approach to injury care, covering both the acute and sub-acute phases of recovery. Let's break down each component:
PEACE (Acute Phase)
Protect: Immediately after an injury, it's crucial to protect the affected area from further harm. This may involve avoiding activities or movements that exacerbate pain.
Elevate: Elevating the injured limb above the heart can help reduce swelling and promote circulation, aiding in the healing process.
Avoid anti-inflammatory medication/ice: Contrary to previous recommendations, recent research suggests that anti-inflammatory medication and ice may not be as beneficial during the acute phase of injury. It's important to avoid these interventions to allow the body's natural healing processes to take place.
Compression: Early compression with a bandage or tape can help minimize swelling, alleviate pain, and facilitate a quicker return to daily activities.
Educate: Getting education from your physiotherapist about your injury and the importance of early activity and appropriate rehabilitation is key. Avoiding unnecessary passive treatments and focusing on active rehabilitation strategies can promote optimal recovery.
LOVE (Sub-Acute Phase)
Load: Gradually reintroducing weight-bearing activities and normal movements helps rebuild strength and function in the injured area.
Optimism: Maintaining a positive outlook is essential for optimal recovery. Negative emotions can hinder progress, so it's important to remain hopeful and optimistic throughout the rehabilitation process.
Vascularization: Engaging in pain-free cardiovascular activity can improve circulation and promote healing in the injured area.
Exercise: Restoring range of motion, strength, and proprioception through targeted exercises is essential for returning to normal activities and reducing the risk of reinjury.
By embracing the principles of PEACE & LOVE, we can offer you more effective and personalized care as you recover from your soft tissue injury. This modern approach puts you at the center, encourages your active participation and provides education tailored to you to optimize your recovery. Let's work together to prioritize PEACE & LOVE in your injury care and rehabilitation journey!
Bri Hicks Physio & Performance is dedicated to providing evidence based physiotherapy care.
Are you recently injured? Book a Physiotherapy appointment today or reach out if you have any questions.