The terms 'ice' and 'compression' refer to the use of a compress which should cool and restrict blood flow to the area. After the initial treatment, compression may be provided by an elasticised bandage. An elasticised stockinet may not provide sufficient support and even a crepe bandage is not as good as some commercially available alternatives. Elevation refers to raising the damaged area as high as is possible to reduce hydrostatic pressure. Massage and heat have a part to play in some soft tissue injuries.
Heat stimulates the A fibres as described above.
It also helps restore the elastic properties of collagen which gets stretched in sprains and strains. However, if applied during the early stages of the condition, it increases blood supply and hence may increase release of adverse chemical mediators. Massage acts as a counterirritant. Again, this should not be applied too soon after the injury but light rubbing seems to initiate pain relief by the gate theory mechanism. Product selection Drug therapy for sprains and strains can be systemic or topical.