In Part 1 of this series, we looked at why the old RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) may not always be the best way to recover from sprains and strains. Research shows that inflammation is part of healing and that movement often beats complete rest. 

Now it is time to look at what comes next. A newer approach called PEACE & LOVE gives athletes, parents, and coaches practical steps for recovery that keep you moving and healing smarter. 

What Is PEACE & LOVE? 

PEACE & LOVE is a two-stage recovery method created by sports medicine experts. It starts with PEACE in the first few days after injury, then transitions to LOVE in the weeks that follow. 

During the PEACE phase, the focus is on Protection of the injured area, Elevation to help with swelling, Avoiding anti-inflammatories like NSAIDs and heavy icing, Compression for support, and Education so athletes and parents understand what to expect in recovery. 

Once the initial phase passes, recovery shifts to LOVE. This stage is about Load, or gradually reintroducing movement and strength; Optimism, maintaining a positive mindset during the healing process; Vascularisation, adding pain-free cardiovascular activity to improve blood flow; and Exercise, restoring strength, balance, and mobility with targeted rehab. 

Why PEACE & LOVE Works 

Unlike RICE, which focuses on stopping inflammation, PEACE & LOVE builds recovery around your body’s natural healing process. It encourages early, safe movement and recognizes that the mind plays a role in healing too. 

For parents and coaches, it means giving athletes the confidence to move safely rather than insisting on complete rest. For adult recreational athletes, it means shifting from “wait it out” to “work it out” with smart, progressive activity. 

What This Looks Like in Real Life 

• • A soccer player with a mild ankle sprain might rest for a day or two, then start gentle range of motion drills before gradually returning to jogging. 
  • A weekend basketball player who tweaks a hamstring can use light stretching and walking, then slowly add strengthening exercises as pain allows. 
  • Parents can help younger athletes by keeping them active in safe ways, like encouraging light movement around the house or at practice, rather than telling them to sit out completely. 

Key Takeaways for Parents, Coaches, and Athletes 

• • Use PEACE in the first few days: protect the injury, control swelling, and avoid heavy use of anti-inflammatories. 
  • Transition into LOVE: add movement, strength, and positive mindset as soon as it is safe. 
  • Movement, not complete rest, is the foundation of long-term recovery. 
  • A physical therapist can guide the right progression for safe return to sport or activity. 

Closing Thoughts 

The PEACE & LOVE method gives athletes, parents, and coaches a clear roadmap for recovery that goes beyond the ice pack. Instead of waiting and resting, it encourages active steps that align with the body’s natural healing process. Whether it is a sprained ankle on the soccer field or a strained muscle during weekend play, choosing movement over immobility helps athletes return stronger, faster, and more confident. 

If you missed Part 1 of this series, start there to learn why the traditional RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) may not always be the best path to recovery and how new research is reshaping what we know about healing. You can read it here: Rethinking RICE in Injury Prevention

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or active parent, understanding how the body truly heals can make all the difference. By rethinking outdated recovery methods, you can bounce back smarter, faster, and stronger.

If pain or injury is holding you back, Buffalo Rehab Group’s Physical and Occupational Therapists are here to help. From early recovery to smart movement strategies, we’ll guide you through a plan built around how the body actually heals. 

Treatment is covered by insurance, no referral is needed, and with flexible in-clinic and virtual appointments, getting started is easy.