Dance Competition First-Aid
Dance competition season is in full swing, and the last thing anyone wants is to miss out due to injury. Unfortunately, sometimes injuries are unavoidable, but knowing how to manage them effectively can ensure you’re back on stage performing & competing as soon as possible.
You may be familiar with the old acronyms of ICE, RICE or even PRICE for dealing with acute injuries. Although quite well known (and probably still widely taught), the evidence supporting this treatment approach is limited and outdated. In 2019, the British Journal of Sports Medicine proposed 2 new acronyms to guide rehabilitation and optimize recovery for soft tissue injuries (the full article can be read here). PEACE & LOVE not only account for the immediate management in the acute phase (PEACE), but also take into account the subacute and chronic stages of injury healing (LOVE).
So next time you find yourself in the unfortunate position of dealing with an injury, just remember, maybe all it needs is a little PEACE & LOVE.
Protection – modify activities as necessary, consider use of aids such as crutches, braces, etc
Elevation – elevate the injured area higher than the heart when possible
Avoid anti-inflammatories – avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications as they may reduce tissue healing
Compression – use compression garments, elastic bandages and/or taping to reduce swelling
Evaluation – consider evaluation by a medical professional, preferably someone familiar with dance medicine
&
Load – gradually increase loading in the injured tissues
Optimism – optimistic and positive thoughts and expectations are associated with better outcomes and prognosis
Vascularization – pain-free cardiovascular activity increases blood flow to the healing tissues
Exercise – restore mobility, strength and proprioception through an active approach to recovery
Thoughts or questions? Any parts of this new first aid paradigm that surprise you? Would love to hear in the comments below!
*note, the original version of this paradigm is directed at clinicians, adaptations have been made for a dance specific patient population