Summer brings increased activity—and often, minor injuries. Throughout my career, I’ve encountered and challenged the conventional RICE method for injury care: Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate. New scientific insights now support what Chinese medicine has long practiced. Instead of RICE, we now have something I find incredibly aligned with both tradition and new science: PEACE and LOVE.
The PEACE Phase – First Few Days After Injury
P – Protect
Avoid activities or movements that cause more pain. This doesn’t mean stopping all movement; if, for example, you have a sprained ankle, continue walking on it as long as it does not hurt.
E – Elevate
Elevate the injured area—such as the ankle—above your heart whenever you’re not active. This helps drain inflammatory fluids from the area.
A – Avoid Anti-inflammatories
Pain exists for a reason. Anti-inflammatories block the natural chemicals your body sends to support healing. Elevating the area and protecting it from further harm are safer ways to reduce pain without interfering with the healing process.
C – Compress
Use compression dressings or ACE bandages when mobile. If the injury is in the knee, kinesiology tape (K2 tape) can be applied to guide the alignment and prevent further injury.
E – Educate
Learning about this updated approach helps you avoid outdated methods like ice and unnecessary rest. Understanding proper movement can support a quicker and safer recovery.
The LOVE Phase – Days Following Initial Healing
L – Load
Begin using the joint with appropriate exercises. For instance, walking or controlled movements after a sprain helps circulation, strengthens ligaments, and supports healing.
O – Optimism
Positive thinking aids recovery. Brain scan research has shown how optimism and negative thoughts can affect brain patterns. Believing in your recovery plays a vital role in healing.
V – Vascularization
Stimulate circulation gently. Move the injured area without causing pain. Activities such as cycling or elliptical training can help improve circulation while avoiding re-injury.
E – Exercise
Movement is essential. Do not re-injure yourself, but engage in safe, intentional exercises to maintain strength and support your body after injury.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Injury Recovery
At my clinic in Santa Rosa, California, we offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which can further support healing. This therapy is effective for:
- Orthopedic injuries
- Skin injuries
- Post-surgical recovery
By increasing the oxygen available to your tissues, circulation improves—supporting your body’s ability to heal.
These new acronyms—PEACE and LOVE—reflect an integrative approach that honors the body’s natural processes. I’ve spent years encouraging patients to move and heal naturally, and now science confirms what Chinese medicine has long practiced.
I hope this information helps you on your healing journey. Never forget that acupuncture can help speed healing for minor injuries – call (707)-524-9640 now to book an appointment!
📖 Learn More: New Rules for Minor Sprains and Strains – They only need PEACE & LOVE
Start your healing journey today – your body is capable of more than you’ve been told.
Love,
Dr. Shiroko Sokitch
