Ice Ain't That Nice
If you’re using ice for that nagging pain or injury again, you may actually be delaying the healing process.
“Coaches have used my “RICE” guideline for decades, but now it appears that both Ice and complete Rest may delay healing, instead of helping.” – Gabe Mirkin, MD
It turns out that the doctor who originally advocated for the extensive use of ice and coined the term "R.I.C.E" (Rest Ice Compression Elevation) has since changed his recommendation for the use of ice.
Check out this article where Dr. Gabe Mirkin explains why ice and complete rest may delay healing, instead of promoting healing. His recommendations for the use of ice?
“Since applying ice to an injury has been shown to reduce pain, it is acceptable to cool an injured part for short periods soon after the injury occurs. You could apply the ice for up to 10 minutes, remove it for 20 minutes, and repeat the 10 minute application once or twice. There is no reason to apply ice more than six hours after you have injured yourself.”
And there's also this related blog post - Why Ice and Anti-inflammatory Medication is NOT the Answer