M.I.C.E or R.I.C.E.

"We play a lot of sports and are familiar with RICE or RICER. But lately we been hearing a bit about MICE and how that is the new thing replacing RICE. " – a bunch of rugby players.

Hi there,

Rest, ice, compress, elevate and refer (R.I.C.E.R) to a medical professional is what most sports people will do to manage an acute injury like a muscle pull or ankle sprain. Recently, M.I.C.E has been gaining popularity with "Movements" replacing "Rest". It is important that the movements are done safely.

Flickr: OnTask

Appropriate and specific movements like stretching during the acute phase of an injury can shorten healing time, reduce scar tissue formations and prevent secondary issues like muscle wasting. This is why ankle sprains are no longer managed with casts but with exercise rehabilitation.

At the same time, movements can potentially aggravate the injury if not done right. Therefore, M.I.C.E is safe only if prescribed by your medical professional. Otherwise, just RICE it.

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Comments

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Malena
M.I.C.E. as an acronym for acute ankle injury treatment was coined by athletic trainer Sam Voight ATC over 20 years ago, which specifically addresses the Motion (Dorsiflexion), Ice, Compression and Elevation. He explains this treatment in detail in his video with Marshfield Clinic at http://www.marshfieldclinic.org/patients/?page=sportsmedicine_mice
or if you prefer YouTube, at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2lN5EFXOrM
You are very correct in your assessment and recommendations. M.I.C.E. is an acute phase treatment that incorporates static dorsiflexion, not active motion that may increase bleeding and swelling.
Later, when the danger of swelling has passed, and with the help of an appropriate medical professional, then “M” can stand for the active Motion activities, stretching and proprioceptive awareness or balance activities of the ankle.