Rethinking Acute Injury Care

Why Ice Is No Longer the First Option

For decades, ice was used to reduce swelling and calm acute pain. However, recent research shows that excessive icing slows tissue metabolism, delays immune activity and may interfere with natural repair.

What the Body Actually Needs After an Injury

Acute injuries require controlled movement, mild compression and early reactivation. These elements stimulate circulation, accelerate tissue repair and prevent excessive stiffness.

Understanding Tissue Irritation vs Tissue Damage

Most acute pains come from irritation rather than structural tears. Differentiating the two helps prevent unnecessary rest and promotes faster, safer recovery.

Why Early Mobilisation Improves Outcomes

Gentle mobility improves joint nutrition, reduces protective stiffness and guides collagen organisation. Early activation is one of the strongest predictors of long-term recovery.

The Modern Principle: Protect, Load, Adapt

Instead of “Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate,” modern care prioritises protection, progressive loading and adaptation. The goal is to keep the system moving intelligently.

Why?

First, scientific evidence can take over 15 years to reach mainstream clinical use. Second, these protocols are sometimes seen as secondary considerations, offering general management principles rather than full treatment strategies.

I provide structured and evidence-based online physiotherapy for patients worldwide, offering clinical assessment, diagnosis, and personalised rehabilitation.

I also receive patients in person at my physiotherapy clinic in Phnom Penh.

You can begin your online physiotherapy session through the dedicated platform:

https://www.studiohealthon.com/online-physiotherapy

More information on clinical standards and supporting evidence is available here:

https://www.studiohealthon.com/online-physiotherapy-clinical-evidence

Yannick Sarton, MSc Physiotherapist

International Online Physiotherapy & In-Clinic Care, Phnom Penh