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by Physiotherapist Michael Wood

The 'No Harm' principle complements the R.I.C.E.R. (Rest, ice, compress, elevate, referral) principle, and is extremely important in the initial 48 hours following a soft tissue injury.

NO

H - Heat
A - Alcohol
R - Running/Exercising the injured area
M - Massage

Why is it necessary to adhere to the principle?

Heat and alcohol cause the blood vessels to dilate (open up) and increase the bleeding in the injured area. Exercising the body part or massaging the area also increases the blood-flow to the area. This is detrimental to the repair process as there is increased swelling in the area to be resolved.

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Related Pages

• See also the RICE principle
• About physiotherapy

Disclaimer

The above information is presented as a general guide. The author and publisher take no responsibility for any possible consequences of any treatment, procedure, exercise, action or application of medication based on this information. See more: Disclaimer.