ICER Treatment stands for:
• Ice the affected area with an ice pack or a packet or frozen peas wrapped in a cloth. Leave the ice on for no longer than 10 minutes, and repeat at least three times a day.
• Compress the affected area with a bandage, particularly for the first 24 hours. Check that fingers or toes do not turn blue because of an over-tight dressing. If you have diabetes or any loss of sensation, avoid using compression.
• Elevate the arm or leg to reduce the blood supply to the area. Check that the circulation is not impaired.
• Rest the affected limb. If the injury is not serious, a couple of days off will probably be adequate treatment. If the injury takes longer to heal, you can use other activities to maintain your fitness.
