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Dr. Levi Merritt DC, NBC-HWC, CPT

Injuries: From PRICE to POLICE


In the context of physical rehabilitation, the acronym "PRICE" stands for a commonly recommended approach to managing certain types of injuries. The PRICE acronym is often used for acute injuries like sprains, strains, or minor joint injuries.


It's a basic guideline for initial self-care or first-aid measures and should be followed up with appropriate medical evaluation and treatment, especially if the injury is severe or doesn't improve with these measures.


Each letter in "PRICE" represents a step or component of the approach:


Protection: This involves protecting the injured area from further harm. It may include immobilization with a brace, splint, or crutches, or simply avoiding activities that exacerbate the injury.


Rest: Rest is essential to allow the body time to begin the healing process. It means reducing or avoiding activities that could strain or worsen the injury.


Ice: Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling. Ice should be applied for about 15-20 minutes at a time, with a cloth or towel between the ice and the skin to prevent frostbite.


Compression: Compression involves using an elastic bandage or wrap to help reduce swelling and support the injured area. Proper compression can help minimize swelling and provide stability.


Elevation: Elevating the injured area above the level of the heart can also help reduce swelling. For example, if you've injured your ankle, propping it up on a pillow while resting can aid in decreasing swelling.


In physical rehabilitation, the PRICE acronym is being replaced by a new acronym, "POLICE".

Substituting (R)est in P(R)ICE with (O)ptimal (L)oading. So it looks like this...

· Protect

· Optimal Loading

· Ice

· Compression

· Elevation


Optimal loading in the context of rehabilitation refers to a principle in which a specific level of stress or load is applied to the body's tissues, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, or bones, during the rehabilitation process to promote healing, recovery, and adaptation without causing further injury or harm.


Optimal loading is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It is tailored to the individual's injury, condition, and physical abilities. Finding the right balance between rest and loading is crucial. Too much rest can lead to muscle atrophy and loss of function, while excessive loading can exacerbate the injury. What may be optimal for one person may not be the same for another.


Optimal loading should not exacerbate pain beyond a manageable level. It's normal to experience some discomfort during rehabilitation, but excessive or worsening pain may indicate that adjustments are needed.


The loading should be progressive, meaning it starts at a manageable level and gradually increases as the individual's strength and tolerance improve. This progression helps prevent overloading and re-injury.


The type of loading applied should be specific to the injury or condition being treated. For example, if someone is rehabilitating a knee injury, exercises and activities that target the knee joint and surrounding muscles would be emphasized.


In summary, optimal loading in rehabilitation is about finding the right amount and type of stress or load to promote healing and recovery while minimizing the risk of further injury. It's a central concept in the field of sports medicine and physical medicine and plays a vital role in helping individuals regain their function and return to their regular activities following an injury or surgery.


It's important to note that not all injuries require the POLICE approach, and some may need different types of care or interventions. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a proper assessment and guidance on managing an injury.


If you would like more information, feel free to call (304-840-2820) or stop by the office. No appointments are necessary, and consultations are free. You can also email me at DocLeviChiropractic@yahoo.com.


Yours in Health,

Dr. Levi G. Merritt, D.C., CPT, CHC

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