When it comes to treating acute injuries, it's no longer best practice to use the "R.I.C.E." method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). As of 2015, the treatment method "M.E.A.T." has become the new normal (Movement, Exercise, Analgesics, Treatment).

What is R.I.C.E.?

R.I.C.E stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, and has been used for decades as the common standard for healing injuries. However, more recent studies have shown that using R.I.C.E. to heal is not the most effective practice.

Here are a few reason why:

• First of all, resting for too long after an injury can delay healing — leading to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, which further influences pain.
• Additionally, while applying ice to an injury does help with an injury short-term, it actually impairs your healing process by restricting blood flow to the affected area.

So if you find yourself healing from an injury, don't go immediately to the R.I.C.E. method. Instead, try using the M.E.A.T. method.

What is M.E.A.T.?

When it comes to healing injuries, adopting a holistic approach can actually be the key to long-term success. And one such approach of holistic healing is M.E.A.T., an acronym standing for Movement, Exercise, Analgesia, and Treatment.

This method focuses on addressing all aspects of an injury to speed up the healing process and optimize performance.

• Movement is prioritized as it helps to maintain range of motion and prevent stiffness.
• Exercise also plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, strengthening muscles and improving overall well-being.
• Analgesia, or pain management, is essential to make the healing process more comfortable.
• Finally, treatment such as physical therapy or massage can help to optimize the recovery process.

By utilizing all aspects of M.E.A.T., individuals can take a proactive approach to healing their injuries and ultimately improve their overall performance.

All in all, healing injuries requires a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of the injury. While analgesia and treatment are crucial for reducing pain and promoting healing, the use of movement and exercise can also aid in speeding up recovery time. It is essential to recognize that injuries must be managed from multiple angles to achieve effective results. This involves developing a well-rounded recovery plan that incorporates various treatments and approaches to address the different needs of the injured area.

Try a somatic exercise program to start implementing the M.E.A.T. method into your healing routine TODAY!