SPORTS
Just in time for the holidays, we are talking about Peace and Love, but in terms of how you may want to treat your acute soft-tissue (i.e. muscle, tendon, ligament) injury. At Ortho RI, we aim to provide the latest in evidence-based care for our patients. When it comes to soft-tissue injuries like sprains or strains, traditional approaches like RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) may not be enough. A new methodology, PEACE and LOVE, offers a holistic approach, addressing not just acute care but also long-term recovery.
What is PEACE?
In the immediate aftermath of a soft-tissue injury, PEACE focuses on protecting and initiating healing while minimizing harm:
P - Protect: Limit movement for 1–3 days to reduce further damage.
E - Elevate: Raise the injured area above the heart to reduce swelling.
A - Avoid anti-inflammatories and ice: Let the body’s natural inflammation promote healing. Evidence suggests anti-inflammatory medications and ice could impair long-term recovery.
C - Compress: Use bandages or taping to limit swelling and support the area.
E - Educate: Empower patients with knowledge about their recovery to avoid unnecessary treatments and foster active participation in their healing journey.
Why Add LOVE?
After the acute stage, soft-tissue injuries benefit from LOVE, which focuses on active rehabilitation:
L - Load: Gradual reintroduction of movement and mechanical stress helps rebuild strength and resilience.
O - Optimism: A positive mindset significantly impacts recovery outcomes. Addressing fears and anxieties is as vital as treating the injury itself.
V - Vascularization: Cardiovascular exercise improves circulation and supports healing, while boosting overall physical function.
E - Exercise: Customized rehabilitation exercises restore mobility, strength, and balance, ensuring optimal tissue repair.
Beyond the Injury
PEACE and LOVE remind us that recovery isn’t just about treating the injury—it’s about treating the whole person. By integrating physical, psychological, and educational support, we aim to enhance recovery and reduce the likelihood of recurrent injuries.
If you’re dealing with a soft-tissue injury, trust our team to guide you with the most up-to-date practices. Contact us today to start your journey to recovery!
Source: Dubois, B., & Esculier, J.-F. (2020). Soft-tissue injuries simply need PEACE and LOVE. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 54(2), 72–73. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2019-101253
