Sport is a healthy activity. However, it can also lead to injury. One of the most common is ankle sprains (1). This is where the RICE protocol comes in. It is a widely recommended method of first aid (2). It is used for the initial treatment of sports injuries. In this article, we will explore this protocol in detail. We will see how it can be your ally against sports injuries, but not only.
Ankle sprains are the most common form of trauma, with 2.2 million consultations per year in the United States alone (1).
In France, ankle sprains are a frequent occurrence, with 6,000 cases per day (2).
70% of individuals may develop chronic instability over a short period after the initial injury. (1) This is why appropriate treatment is essential.
Although it is the most common form of trauma to this joint, the ankle can also be affected by fractures and inflammation. More rarely, osteoarthritis can occur.
Ruptured cruciate ligaments, particularly the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), can be treated using different approaches depending on the severity of the injury, the patient's lifestyle and recovery goals.