What does the R in the RICE acronym stand for in injury management?

The R in the RICE acronym stands for Rest, which is a crucial initial step in managing an injury, particularly in the context of acute injuries like sprains and strains. Rest allows the injured area to reduce inflammation and prevents further damage by avoiding activities that could exacerbate the injury. This is essential for promoting healing, as it gives tissues time to recover without the added stress of movement or weight-bearing. By starting with rest, the following steps in the RICE protocol—ice, compression, and elevation—can be effectively implemented to manage pain and swelling, overall facilitating a better recovery process.