What should be applied to reduce swelling according to the RICE method?

The RICE method is a well-established first aid technique for managing acute injuries, particularly those resulting in swelling. The acronym stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. In this context, applying ice directly to the injured area serves to reduce swelling effectively. Ice works by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the area, which helps to minimize inflammation and numb the pain.

By incorporating ice into the care routine shortly after an injury occurs, individuals can reduce the swelling and associated discomfort. It's recommended to apply ice for intervals of around 15-20 minutes, allowing some time in between applications to avoid frostbite.

In contrast, while heat, compression, and elevation are important components of the RICE method, they serve different purposes. Heat can relax muscles and increase blood flow, which is generally not advisable immediately after an injury; compression helps control swelling; and elevation assists in reducing swelling by encouraging fluid drainage from the injured area.