What is the recommended treatment for contusions?

• A. Apply heat
• B. Hydration
• C. RICE
• D. Elevation

Answer: (C)

Contusions are best managed in the first 24 to 48 hours by reducing swelling and pain. The approach known as RICE—Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation—provides a practical, evidence-based sequence: Rest prevents further injury; Ice limits bleeding into tissues and reduces swelling by constricting vessels; Compression helps keep the swelling down by limiting fluid buildup; Elevation uses gravity to help drain fluids away from the injury. This combination directly addresses the most common early issues with a bruise. Heat is not recommended in this acute window because it can increase blood flow and swelling. Hydration matters for overall recovery but doesn’t directly treat the contusion itself. Elevation helps reduce swelling, but it’s most effective when paired with ice and compression as part of the RICE approach.