There’s a nifty hourly breakdown of how
the average American spends their day provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics. Looking closely at the chart you’ll see that most people spend
roughly thirty minutes exercising each day, which is fantastic. Some people may
exercise more, while others workout less.
Others, work on their feet all day and don’t feel much like exercising
when they get home, which is a normal feeling. Regardless, the common
denominator for each type of person is the amount of time spent on their feet.
Assuming that the average person exercises for thirty minutes, three times a
week, that’s an hour and a half of exercise per week, which amounts to six
hours per month, seventy-two hours per year, where your feet are put to work.
Given how often most people use their feet, whether for
hours of exercise, work, or both, it is important to know how to treat an
injury because let’s face it; you’re going to sustain at least a few minor
injuries along the way. Fortunately, there is a simple acronym to help you
remember how to treat those frustrating, sometimes painful, little pulls and
strains.
Just remember RICE.
R is for “rest.” Once you have an injury, no matter how
small, just stop. Don’t try to be a tough-guy and make things worse. Limping to
your car and calling it a day is substantially better than needing a lift to
the hospital.
I is for “ice.” This one ought to be self-explanatory. When
you’re injured, grab some ice. Pull a muscle in your foot? Grab some ice. Is
your ankle swollen? Grab some ice.
C is for “compression.” You may need to put some pressure on
yourself depending on the nature of your injury. How much or how little can
vary widely, but what’s important is that you’re paying attention to what your
body is telling you.
E is for “elevation.” You may not feel like you need to lie
down on the couch and raise your foot up after playing fetch with your dog, but
if you pulled something, it’s wise to get off of it and get it up.
Of course, there’s no replacement for sound medical consultation to
determine the best treatment for your injury. Never ignore an injury just
because you feel as though the pain is tolerable. Use RICE immediately
following a minor sprain, pull, or swelling. However, as soon as you’re able to
visit a doctor be sure to get examined. This way you’ll be back on your feet
sooner and longer.
