Recovery
R.I.C.E. After Surgery
If your doctor recommended the R.I.C.E. method after surgery, but you’re
unsure what it is, keep reading for our easy to understand explanation.
If you’ve recently had bunion or hammer toe surgery, ankle replacement, or a knee replacement, your doctor may recommend the R.I.C.E. method to help manage pain and swelling.1
- Rest. Modified rest is important. You don’t want to spend all of your time in bed, but also you don’t want to over-exert yourself.
- Ice. Applying ice to the area can help relieve pain. Your doctor may suggest an alternating schedule, like applying ice for 20 minutes at a time with two hours in between icing, as needed. It’s a good idea to be sure to put something, like a pillow case, between the ice and your skin to protect your skin.
- Compression. Using a compression wrap or elastic bandage around the area can help manage swelling. Your doctor can recommend what would work best for your recovery.
- Elevation. Elevate your leg whenever possible. While you’re lying down, for instance, you can use pillows to prop up the leg.
References
- How RICE Speeds up Recovery from Foot Surgery (n.d.). Newport Center Orthopedic Medical and Surgical Supply. https://www.newportcenterorthopedic.com/how-rice-speeds-up-recovery-from-foot-surgery/
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