10/15/2023
To Ice or Not To Ice that is the question π§ π€ - The current biggest debate in the Sports injury world!
To Ice or Not To Ice that is the question π§ π€
Sports medicine and injury rehab are evolving rapidly, with the latest research leading the way. π₯ That's why there's so much debate about whether ice is a hero or a villain in injury recovery.
When you twist your ankle or see your favorite athletes getting hurt on the field, your first instinct might be to reach for the ice pack. π€ But is this old-school approach still in sync with the latest findings? π Let's dive into the chilling truth about ice and
The OL) aids recovery through cell regeneration induced by light mechanical loading in the early stages. Subsequently, Rest (R) or a lack of movement is detrimental to recovery (3).
But what about ice?
In 2014, Dr Mirkin acknowledged changes in the research and, as any evidence-based scientist would, retracted ice from his initial protocol. He stated that coaches had been using his ββRICEβ guideline for decades, but now it appeared that both ice and complete rest may in fact delay healing, instead of helpingβ (3).
What Dr Mirkin is referring to is the necessary benefits of the inflammation process. When we injure ourselves, our body sends signals out to our inflammatory cells (macrophages) which release the hormone Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1). These cells initiate healing by killing off damaged tissue. Although when ice is applied, we may actually be preventing the bodyβs natural release of IGF-1 and therefore delaying the initiation of the healing process (3).
Ice was finally revoked in 2019 from the injury management process with the latest and most comprehensive acronym: PEACE & LOVE (Protection, Elevation, Avoid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, Compression, Education & Load, Optimism, Vascularisation and Exercise).
My Opinion π: From experience firsthand I have observed that Ice is effective for reducing swelling and inflammation but I would definitely combine and incorporate it with the new PEACE & LOVE Protocols when dealing with acute injuries.
What is your opinion? Would love to hear your experiences & opinions in the comments section below