Soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains and contusions are common in football and the initial response to these injuries plays a crucial role in recovery. Traditional methods like R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation) have been widely used since their introduction in 1978. However, recent evidence suggests that these methods may not support optimal tissue healing, leading to the development of the P.E.A.C.E. (protection, elevation, avoid anti-inflammatories, compression, education) & L.O.V.E. (load, optimism, vascularization, exercise) protocol, which emphasizes natural healing processes without the use of anti-inflammatory treatments.
Rizvi A et al conducted a study to analyze the recurrence of injuries and the remedial management strategies used by footballers, promoting awareness of the P.E.A.C.E. & L.O.V.E. principle for better injury outcomes.
This was a survey-based observational study involving 200 footballers aged 18 to 35, playing at different levels in Lucknow football academies and clubs. Data were collected using a self-made questionnaire comprising questions about football-related injuries and their management.
Key results of the study were:
• Injury recurrence: 76.5% experienced more than one recurrence, while 24.5% had a single recurrence.
• Immediate treatment strategies: 59.5% followed R.I.C.E., 30.5% used P.R.I.C.E. and 9.5% followed P.O.L.I.C.E.
• Awareness of P.E.A.C.E. & L.O.V.E.: 88% were unaware, while only 12% were aware of the principle.
• Perceived study impact: 96.5% of participants found this study informative.
The authors concluded - “This study contributes to a growing body of literature suggesting that the application of the P.E.A.C.E. & L.O.V.E. protocol offers a more effective and holistic approach to managing acute soft tissue injuries in footballers. The findings highlight the limitations of traditional methods such as RICE, particularly the use of ice and complete rest, which may delay healing rather than promote it. Footballers can refer to PEACE & LOVE as immediate management of injuries for optimal recovery, so as to avoid recurrence of injuries. Only 11.5% footballers were aware whereas 88.5% of footballers were not aware about this principle.”
Further reading:
Rizvi A et al. Holistic approach to managing acute soft tissue injury: PEACE and LOVE protocol-observational research. Int J Res Orthop 2025;11:530-4.
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