How Do You Follow The PRICE Formula To Treat Muscle Strains?
The PRICE formula, which is used to treat muscle strains, stands for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. When you follow these five steps, you can help speed up the healing process and relieve the pain and swelling that occurs when you have a muscle tear or strain. Protect the muscle strain from being further injured by avoiding any additional physical contact or pressure. Rest the strained muscle and avoid physical activity that can further aggravate it. Avoid the movements and activities that produced the injury in the first place. Ice the injured area in order to reduce swelling. Place an ice pack on the muscle strain for at least 15 to 20 minutes every hour for the first day after the injury and then reduce the frequency to 15 to 20 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for the following 2 days. Compress the muscle strain by placing an elastic bandage, such as an Ace bandage, around the injured area. Take care not to wrap the bandage too tight, which can restrict the blood circu