Which statement best describes the modern approach to initial soft tissue injury management?

• A. Traditional PRICE: Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
• B. PEACE & LOVE Emphasizes Protect, Elevate, Avoid NSAIDs Early, Compression, Education; Load and Training Modifications
• C. RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
• D. PRICE Plus NSAIDs Allowed Early

Answer: (B)

The modern approach to initial soft tissue injury management centers on protecting the healing tissue while gradually reintroducing load to restore function. This is captured by the PEACE & LOVE framework. In the PEACE phase, you Protect the area from further harm, Elevate to reduce swelling, Avoid NSAIDs early because they can interfere with the natural inflammatory process that supports healing, use Compression as needed, and provide clear Education so the person understands how to manage activities and symptoms. The LOVE phase then emphasizes Load and training modifications—introducing controlled loading and adjustments to activity to promote tissue remodeling and a safe return to function as pain allows.

This approach reflects a shift away from prolonged rest and ice toward early, guided movement and functional training. It also cautions against relying on NSAIDs early, aligning with evidence that early anti-inflammatory medication can hinder healing. The other options describe more traditional frameworks that emphasize rest and ice or permit NSAIDs immediately, which aren’t aligned with current best practice.