Which of the following treatments is recommended in the acute management of soft tissue injuries?

• A. RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
• B. Immediate resistance training
• C. Massage immediately
• D. Heat therapy only

Answer: (A)

In the acute stage of a soft tissue injury the priority is to limit bleeding into the tissue, reduce swelling, and protect the area so healing can begin. RICE provides this approach: rest prevents further damage, ice reduces swelling and numbs pain, compression limits fluid buildup, and elevation helps fluids drain away from the injured site.

Heat therapy too early would increase blood flow and swelling, making inflammation worse, while massage right after injury can aggravate damaged tissues and provoke more swelling. Immediate resistance training places stress on the injured fibers and can delay recovery. So, the best recommended management in the acute phase is rest, ice, compression, and elevation.