Soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and muscle injuries are common in sport and everyday life. The PEACE and LOVE approach provides a modern framework for managing these injuries.
The early stage focuses on protecting the injured area and supporting the body’s natural healing response. As recovery progresses, the focus shifts to restoring movement, strength, and confidence.
In the first few days after an injury, the priority is to protect the tissue and allow the body’s healing processes to begin.
Protect
Reduce stress on the injured area for the first few days. This may involve modifying activity or temporarily avoiding movements that increase pain.
Elevate
Where possible, keep the injured area elevated above the level of the heart. Elevation can help manage swelling during the early phase of injury.
Avoid Anti-Inflammatories
Inflammation is part of the body’s natural healing response. In some cases, avoiding anti-inflammatory medication early may support normal tissue repair.
Compress
Compression using a bandage or support can help control swelling and provide gentle stability to the injured area.
Educate
Understanding the injury and the expected recovery process helps people remain active and confident while healing.
As symptoms settle, the focus shifts toward restoring movement and function.
Load
Gradually reintroducing load and movement helps tissues regain strength and tolerance.
Optimism
Confidence and a positive outlook can support recovery and help people stay engaged with rehabilitation.
Vascularisation
Gentle cardiovascular exercise such as walking or cycling can improve circulation and support tissue healing.
Exercise
Targeted rehabilitation exercises help restore strength, mobility, coordination, and confidence in movement.
Soft tissue injuries often recover well with the right guidance.
At Roslyn Physiotherapy we can help by:
Assessing the injury and confirming the diagnosis
Providing advice for early injury management
Guiding progressive rehabilitation exercises
Supporting safe return to sport, work, and daily activity
Our focus is on helping people recover safely and regain confidence in movement.
Book an appointment today to get yourself back to doing the things you love.
