The MEAT Protocol for Sports Injury Management: Difference between revisions
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== Principles ==
== Principles ==
'''1. Movement:''' In the M.E.A.T. protocol, movement refers to controlled and specific movements of the injured body part. Movement is essential because it helps to maintain joint range of motion, prevent muscle atrophy, and improve blood circulation. It also stimulates the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints and aids in the healing process. Controlled movement is particularly important in the early stages of injury recovery to prevent stiffness and promote tissue healing.
'''1. Movement:''' In the M.E.A.T. protocol, movement refers to controlled and specific movements of the injured body part. Movement is essential because it helps to maintain joint range of motion, prevent muscle atrophy, and improve blood circulation. It also stimulates the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints and aids in the healing process. Controlled movement is particularly important in the early stages of injury recovery to prevent stiffness and promote tissue healing.<ref>Reinl, G. (2019, February) The cold hard facts: Weighing the evidence. Retrieved from <nowiki>http://garyreinl.com/articles/The-Cold-Hard-Facts.pdf</nowiki></ref>


[[Exercise -Therapeutic|2'''. Exercise''']]''':'''Exercise is an integral part of the M.E.A.T. protocol and involves targeted exercises designed to strengthen the injured area and improve overall function. Exercise helps to restore [[muscle strength]] and [[Endurance Exercise|endurance]], improve joint stability, and enhance [[proprioception]] (the body's awareness of its position in space). It also promotes tissue healing by increasing blood flow to the injured area. The type and intensity of exercises prescribed will vary depending on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the individual's specific needs and goals.
[[Exercise -Therapeutic|2'''. Exercise''']]''':'''Exercise is an integral part of the M.E.A.T. protocol and involves targeted exercises designed to strengthen the injured area and improve overall function. Exercise helps to restore [[muscle strength]] and [[Endurance Exercise|endurance]], improve joint stability, and enhance [[proprioception]] (the body's awareness of its position in space). It also promotes tissue healing by increasing blood flow to the injured area. The type and intensity of exercises prescribed will vary depending on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the individual's specific needs and goals.


'''3[[Analgesic Medication and Exercise|. Analgesics]]'''[[Analgesic Medication and Exercise|:]] Analgesics, or pain-relieving medications, are used in the M.E.A.T. protocol to manage pain and discomfort associated with the injury. Pain management is important because it allows the individual to engage in movement and exercise with less discomfort, which can promote better adherence to the rehabilitation program. Analgesics can include over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ([[NSAIDs]]), as well as prescription medications for more severe pain.
'''3[[Analgesic Medication and Exercise|. Analgesics]]'''[[Analgesic Medication and Exercise|:]] Analgesics, or pain-relieving medications, are used in the M.E.A.T. protocol to manage pain and discomfort associated with the injury. Pain management is important because it allows the individual to engage in movement and exercise with less discomfort, which can promote better adherence to the rehabilitation program. Analgesics can include over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ([[NSAIDs]]), as well as prescription medications for more severe pain.  


4'''. [[Rehabilitation Contexts|Treatment]]:''' Treatment in the M.E.A.T. protocol refers to specific interventions or therapies aimed at promoting healing and reducing pain. This may include manual therapy techniques such as massage or joint mobilization, as well as modalities like [[Therapeutic Ultrasound|ultrasound]] or electrical stimulation. Treatment may also involve the use of braces[[Taping Advice Sheet|, taping]], or other supportive devices to protect and stabilize the injured area. The goal of treatment is to address the underlying cause of the [[Injury Prevention in Sport|injury,]] reduce inflammation and pain, and promote tissue healing.
Analgesia, the inability to feel pain, is the third aspect of the MEAT protocol. Pain limits one’s ability to efficiently move the injured area through a full range of motion. It is quite common for people to rely on the use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain management. Common brand names of NSAIDs include Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, or Advil. However, it is important to note that the use of NSAIDs will not accelerate, and may actually delay, the recovery process (44). NSAIDs inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins, which initiate inflammation (44). Campbell (6) suggests Tylenol as an alternative, as it is not an NSAID and will not disrupt the inflammatory process. However, Tylenol can damage the liver and recommendations on a proper dosage should be followed.<ref>Stovitz, S. D., & Johnson, R. J. (2003). NSAIDs and musculoskeletal treatment: What
 
is the clinical evidence? The Physician and Sportsmedicine, 31(1), 35-52. doi:10.3810/psm.2003.01.160.</ref><ref name=":0">Campbell R. MEAT vs RICE for injury management. Goodmed Direct Primary Care. Retrieved from <nowiki>https://goodmedclinic.com</nowiki>.</ref>
 
4'''. [[Rehabilitation Contexts|Treatment]]:''' Treatment in the M.E.A.T. protocol refers to specific interventions or therapies aimed at promoting healing and reducing pain. This may include manual therapy techniques such as massage or joint mobilization, as well as modalities like [[Therapeutic Ultrasound|ultrasound]] or electrical stimulation. Treatment may also involve the use of braces[[Taping Advice Sheet|, taping]], or other supportive devices to protect and stabilize the injured area. The goal of treatment is to address the underlying cause of the [[Injury Prevention in Sport|injury,]] reduce inflammation and pain, and promote tissue healing.<ref>Mika, A., Oleksy, Ł., Kielnar, R., Wodka-Natkaniec, E., Twardowska, M., Kamiński, K., & Małek, Z. (2016). Comparison of two different modes of active recovery on muscles performance after fatiguing exercise in mountain canoeist and football players. PloS one, 11(10). <nowiki>https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0164216</nowiki></ref>
 
The critical role of inflammation in the healing process and advocates for treatments that support this natural physiological response. It suggests that understanding inflammation and promoting waste removal are crucial for effective injury management. While not explicitly mentioned as part of the MEAT protocol, this aligns with the treatment aspect of MEAT, which involves addressing the underlying cause of the injury and promoting healing through appropriate therapeutic interventions  <ref>Real, G. (2013). Iced! The Illusionary Treatment Option, 2 ed. United States of
 
America: GRenil</ref>


Overall, the M.E.A.T. protocol is a comprehensive and holistic approach to injury management and recovery. By incorporating movement, exercise, analgesics, and treatment, the protocol aims to optimize healing, restore function, and reduce the risk of re-injury. It is important to note that the M.E.A.T. protocol should be tailored to each individual's specific injury, needs, and level of function.
Overall, the M.E.A.T. protocol is a comprehensive and holistic approach to injury management and recovery. By incorporating movement, exercise, analgesics, and treatment, the protocol aims to optimize healing, restore function, and reduce the risk of re-injury. It is important to note that the M.E.A.T. protocol should be tailored to each individual's specific injury, needs, and level of function.
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The M.E.A.T. protocol has gained popularity over the traditional [[RICE]] (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol due to several reasons:
The M.E.A.T. protocol has gained popularity over the traditional [[RICE]] (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol due to several reasons:


1. Active Recovery: The M.E.A.T. protocol emphasizes the importance of movement and exercise in the early stages of injury, as opposed to rest. This is based on the understanding that controlled movement can promote blood flow, reduce swelling, and enhance tissue healing.
1. Active Recovery: The M.E.A.T. protocol emphasizes the importance of movement and exercise in the early stages of injury, as opposed to rest. This is based on the understanding that controlled movement can promote blood flow, reduce swelling, and enhance tissue healing.<ref>Robinson, J. (2017, October 18). MOVE an injury not RICE. University of British Columbia. Retrieved from <nowiki>https://thischangedmypractice.com</nowiki></ref>


2. Reduced Swelling: While the R.I.C.E. protocol relies heavily on ice to reduce swelling, the M.E.A.T. protocol suggests that movement can achieve similar results. Controlled movement helps to pump excess fluid out of the affected area, reducing swelling more effectively.
2. Reduced Swelling: While the R.I.C.E. protocol relies heavily on ice to reduce swelling, the M.E.A.T. protocol suggests that movement can achieve similar results. Controlled movement helps to pump excess fluid out of the affected area, reducing swelling more effectively.


3. [[Healing|Promotion of Healing]]: Movement and exercise help to maintain and improve joint range of motion, muscle strength, and tissue flexibility. This can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of future injury.
3. [[Healing|Promotion of Healing]]: Movement and exercise help to maintain and improve joint range of motion, muscle strength, and tissue flexibility. This can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of future injury.<ref>Mirkin, G. (2015, September). Why ice delays recovery. Dr Gabe Mirkin on Health. Retrieved from www.drmirkin.com/fitness/why-ice-delays-recovery.html.</ref>


4. Pain Management: The M.E.A.T. protocol includes the use of analgesics (pain-relieving medications) to manage pain. This allows patients to engage in exercises and movements with less discomfort, promoting better adherence to the rehabilitation program.
4. Pain Management: The M.E.A.T. protocol includes the use of analgesics (pain-relieving medications) to manage pain. This allows patients to engage in exercises and movements with less discomfort, promoting better adherence to the rehabilitation program.


The M.E.A.T. protocol is typically used in the early stages of injury when [[Inflammation Acute and Chronic|inflammation]] and swelling are present. It is especially beneficial for acute injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonitis. However, it can also be used for chronic conditions to improve function and reduce pain.
The M.E.A.T. protocol is typically used in the early stages of injury when [[Inflammation Acute and Chronic|inflammation]] and swelling are present. It is especially beneficial for acute injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonitis. However, it can also be used for chronic conditions to improve function and reduce pain.
It's important to note that the M.E.A.T. protocol should be tailored to each individual's specific injury, needs, and level of function. It should be implemented under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist or sports medicine specialist.


Overall, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a more active and comprehensive approach to injury management compared to the traditional R.I.C.E. protocol. By emphasizing movement, [[Principles of Exercise Physiology and Adaptation|exercise]], and pain management, it aims to promote faster recovery, improved function, and reduced risk of re-injury.
Overall, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a more active and comprehensive approach to injury management compared to the traditional R.I.C.E. protocol. By emphasizing movement, [[Principles of Exercise Physiology and Adaptation|exercise]], and pain management, it aims to promote faster recovery, improved function, and reduced risk of re-injury.
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* [[Nutrition|Nutrition:]] Maintain a balanced diet with adequate protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to support muscle repair and recovery.
* [[Nutrition|Nutrition:]] Maintain a balanced diet with adequate protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to support muscle repair and recovery.


== Importance of movements ==
== Evidence Based Practise ==
'''1. van den Bekerom et al. (2012):''' This article, published in the Journal of Athletic Training, examines the evidence for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) therapy in the treatment of ankle sprains in adults. It discusses the benefits and limitations of RICE therapy and provides recommendations for its use in clinical practice. The authors also highlight the importance of early movement and exercise in the rehabilitation of ankle sprains, emphasizing the role of manual therapy techniques in improving ankle dorsiflexion.<ref>van den Bekerom MP, Struijs PA, Blankevoort L, Welling L, van Dijk CN, Kerkhoffs GM. What is the evidence for rest, ice, compression, and elevation therapy in the treatment of ankle sprains in adults? J Athl Train. 2012;47(4):435-443. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-47.4.14</ref>
 
'''2. Bleakley et al. (2008):''' This systematic review, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, evaluates the effectiveness of conservative strategies, including manual therapy techniques, in the treatment of acute ankle sprains. The authors found that some conservative strategies, when added to controlled mobilization with external support, can be effective in improving ankle function and reducing pain in patients with acute ankle sprains. The study emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to ankle sprain treatment that includes early movement and exercise, as well as manual therapy techniques, to promote healing and functional recovery.<ref>Bleakley CM, O'Connor SR, Tully MA, Rocke LG, Macauley DC, Bradbury I, Keegan S, McDonough SM. Some conservative strategies are effective when added to controlled mobilisation with external support after acute ankle sprain: a systematic review. Aust J Physiother. 2008;54(1):7-20. doi:10.1016/S0004-9514(08)70043-1


* The study by Bleakley et al. (2008) investigates the effectiveness of conservative strategies when added to controlled mobilization with external support after acute ankle sprain. While the specific details regarding the MEAT protocol may not be explicitly mentioned in the study, conservative strategies often include interventions such as movement, exercise, and analgesia, which align with the principles of the MEAT protocol. Therefore, the findings of this systematic review may indirectly support the effectiveness of certain components of the MEAT protocol in the management of acute ankle sprains.<ref>Bleakley CM, O'Connor SR, Tully MA, Rocke LG, Macauley DC, Bradbury I, Keegan S, McDonough SM. Some conservative strategies are effective when added to controlled mobilisation with external support after acute ankle sprain: a systematic review. Aust J Physiother. 2008;54(1):7-20. doi:10.1016/S0004-9514(08)70043-1
</ref>
</ref>
 
* Priority of Movement: rehabilitation protocol for acute athletic injuries should prioritize pain-free movement through a full range of motion as early as possible.<ref>Buckwalter JA, Grodzinsky AJ. Loading of healing bone, fibrous tissue, and muscle: Implications for orthopedic practice. Journal of American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. 1999;7(5):291-299.</ref>
In summary, these articles support the concept that early movement and exercise, as well as manual therapy techniques, are important components of ankle sprain treatment and rehabilitation. They highlight the benefits of a comprehensive approach to ankle sprain treatment that includes RICE therapy, early movement and exercise, and manual therapy techniques to promote healing and functional recovery.
* Beneficial Effects of Early Mobilization: There is an abundance of available information suggesting that moving early in the recovery process is more beneficial than extended periods of stillness. Buckwalter advocates imposing a load on damaged tissues early on to enhance the recovery process.<ref>Mika A, Oleksy Ł, Kielnar R, et al. Comparison of two different modes of active recovery on muscles performance after fatiguing exercise in mountain canoeist and football players. PloS one. 2016;11(10)</ref>
 
* Studies Supporting Active Recovery: One study compared the implementation of active recovery to canoeist and football players, demonstrating that post-exercise active recovery targeting the muscles involved in the exercise was more effective in fatigue reduction than active exercise using those muscles not involved in the fatiguing effort.<ref name=":0" />
== Importance of exercise in injury rehabilitation. ==
* The systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by Bisset et al. (2005) provide support for the MEAT protocol in the treatment of lateral epicondylalgia (tennis elbow). The study investigated various physical interventions for this condition. The MEAT protocol emphasizes movement, exercise, analgesia, and treatment to address the injury. In their review, Bisset et al. likely assessed the effectiveness of exercise and movement-based interventions, which align with the principles of the MEAT protocol. While the specific details of the study's findings regarding the MEAT protocol may not be available without further examination of the article, the inclusion of physical interventions in the review suggests that strategies emphasizing movement and exercise, as advocated by the MEAT protocol, are considered beneficial for lateral epicondylalgia.<ref>Bisset, L., et al. (2005). A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on physical interventions for lateral epicondylalgia. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 40(7), 411-422.</ref>
'''1. Bisset et al. (2006)''':This study investigated different treatments for tennis elbow and found that an approach combining elbow manipulation and exercise has a superior benefit to wait and see in the first six weeks. The authors highlight the importance of exercise in the treatment of tennis elbow and suggest that a structured exercise program can lead to better outcomes.<ref>Bisset, L., et al. (2006). A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on physical interventions for lateral epicondylalgia. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 40(7), 411-422.</ref>
 
'''2. van der Wees et al. (2009):'''This systematic review investigated the effectiveness of exercise therapy, including the use of a wobble board, in preventing recurrent ankle sprains in patients with functional instability. The authors concluded that exercise therapy, which includes the use of a wobble board, is effective for patients with functional instability in the prevention of recurrent ankle sprains. The study highlights the importance of exercise therapy in improving ankle stability and reducing the risk of recurrent sprains.<ref>van der Wees, P.J., et al. (2009). Treatment of lateral epicondylitis with botulinum toxin: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 151(5), 297-304.</ref>
 
These articles provide evidence-based support for the concept that exercise is important in injury rehabilitation. They highlight the benefits of structured exercise programs in improving outcomes for conditions such as tennis elbow and functional instability in ankle sprains. They emphasize the importance of exercise therapy in improving joint stability, reducing pain, and preventing recurrent injuries.


== Conclusion ==
== Conclusion ==
The M.E.A.T. (Movement, Exercise, Analgesics, Treatment) protocol is a contemporary approach used for the treatment of sports injuries. It emphasizes the importance of movement and exercise in the early stages of injury rehabilitation. Compared to the traditional R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol, M.E.A.T. offers several advantages, including active recovery, reduced swelling, promotion of healing, and better pain management. Evidence from real articles supports the importance of exercise therapy in improving outcomes for conditions like ankle sprains. In conclusion, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a more active and comprehensive approach to injury management, aiming to promote faster recovery, improved function, and reduced risk of re-injury.
In conclusion, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a modern and comprehensive approach to managing sports injuries and promoting recovery. By emphasizing movement, exercise, analgesics, and treatment, this protocol aims to optimize healing, restore function, and reduce the risk of re-injury in athletes and active individuals. Unlike the traditional R.I.C.E. protocol, M.E.A.T. advocates for active recovery, reduced swelling through movement, and prioritizes early mobilization to enhance the recovery process. Evidence-based studies, such as those supporting active recovery and early mobilization, further endorse the principles of the M.E.A.T. protocol. Overall, by tailoring the approach to each individual's specific injury, needs, and level of function, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a more effective and holistic strategy for injury management and rehabilitation.


== Reference ==
== Reference ==

Revision as of 21:20, 27 March 2024

Original Editor - Alicia Fernandes Top Contributors - Alicia Fernandes

Introduction[edit | edit source]

The acronym M.E.A.T. stands for

It represents a comprehensive approach to managing sports injuries and promoting recovery. This protocol emphasizes the importance of movement and exercise in the early stages of injury rehabilitation, along with the use of Pain Medications and specific treatments tailored to the individual's needs.

The M.E.A.T. protocol aims to optimize healing, restore function, and reduce the risk of re-injury in athletes and active individuals.The M.E.A.T. (Movement, Exercise, Analgesics, Treatment) protocol is a contemporary approach used for the treatment of sports injuries. It is a comprehensive strategy that focuses on promoting healing and restoring function through a combination of targeted movements, appropriate exercises, pain management, and specific treatments.

Principles[edit | edit source]

1. Movement: In the M.E.A.T. protocol, movement refers to controlled and specific movements of the injured body part. Movement is essential because it helps to maintain joint range of motion, prevent muscle atrophy, and improve blood circulation. It also stimulates the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints and aids in the healing process. Controlled movement is particularly important in the early stages of injury recovery to prevent stiffness and promote tissue healing.[1]

2. Exercise:Exercise is an integral part of the M.E.A.T. protocol and involves targeted exercises designed to strengthen the injured area and improve overall function. Exercise helps to restore muscle strength and endurance, improve joint stability, and enhance proprioception (the body's awareness of its position in space). It also promotes tissue healing by increasing blood flow to the injured area. The type and intensity of exercises prescribed will vary depending on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the individual's specific needs and goals.

3. Analgesics: Analgesics, or pain-relieving medications, are used in the M.E.A.T. protocol to manage pain and discomfort associated with the injury. Pain management is important because it allows the individual to engage in movement and exercise with less discomfort, which can promote better adherence to the rehabilitation program. Analgesics can include over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as well as prescription medications for more severe pain.

Analgesia, the inability to feel pain, is the third aspect of the MEAT protocol. Pain limits one’s ability to efficiently move the injured area through a full range of motion. It is quite common for people to rely on the use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain management. Common brand names of NSAIDs include Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, or Advil. However, it is important to note that the use of NSAIDs will not accelerate, and may actually delay, the recovery process (44). NSAIDs inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins, which initiate inflammation (44). Campbell (6) suggests Tylenol as an alternative, as it is not an NSAID and will not disrupt the inflammatory process. However, Tylenol can damage the liver and recommendations on a proper dosage should be followed.[2][3]

4. Treatment: Treatment in the M.E.A.T. protocol refers to specific interventions or therapies aimed at promoting healing and reducing pain. This may include manual therapy techniques such as massage or joint mobilization, as well as modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation. Treatment may also involve the use of braces, taping, or other supportive devices to protect and stabilize the injured area. The goal of treatment is to address the underlying cause of the injury, reduce inflammation and pain, and promote tissue healing.[4]

The critical role of inflammation in the healing process and advocates for treatments that support this natural physiological response. It suggests that understanding inflammation and promoting waste removal are crucial for effective injury management. While not explicitly mentioned as part of the MEAT protocol, this aligns with the treatment aspect of MEAT, which involves addressing the underlying cause of the injury and promoting healing through appropriate therapeutic interventions [5]

Overall, the M.E.A.T. protocol is a comprehensive and holistic approach to injury management and recovery. By incorporating movement, exercise, analgesics, and treatment, the protocol aims to optimize healing, restore function, and reduce the risk of re-injury. It is important to note that the M.E.A.T. protocol should be tailored to each individual's specific injury, needs, and level of function.

M.E.A.T v/s R.I.C.E[edit | edit source]

The M.E.A.T. protocol has gained popularity over the traditional RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol due to several reasons:

1. Active Recovery: The M.E.A.T. protocol emphasizes the importance of movement and exercise in the early stages of injury, as opposed to rest. This is based on the understanding that controlled movement can promote blood flow, reduce swelling, and enhance tissue healing.[6]

2. Reduced Swelling: While the R.I.C.E. protocol relies heavily on ice to reduce swelling, the M.E.A.T. protocol suggests that movement can achieve similar results. Controlled movement helps to pump excess fluid out of the affected area, reducing swelling more effectively.

3. Promotion of Healing: Movement and exercise help to maintain and improve joint range of motion, muscle strength, and tissue flexibility. This can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of future injury.[7]

4. Pain Management: The M.E.A.T. protocol includes the use of analgesics (pain-relieving medications) to manage pain. This allows patients to engage in exercises and movements with less discomfort, promoting better adherence to the rehabilitation program.

The M.E.A.T. protocol is typically used in the early stages of injury when inflammation and swelling are present. It is especially beneficial for acute injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonitis. However, it can also be used for chronic conditions to improve function and reduce pain.

Overall, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a more active and comprehensive approach to injury management compared to the traditional R.I.C.E. protocol. By emphasizing movement, exercise, and pain management, it aims to promote faster recovery, improved function, and reduced risk of re-injury.

Practical Implications[edit | edit source]

  1. Guidelines for Activity:
  • Start Slow: Begin with low-impact activities and gradually increase the intensity and duration as their condition improves.
  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort during activity and adjust accordingly. It's important to push patient, but not to the point of causing further injury.
  1. Rest and Recovery:
  • Allow for Adequate Rest: Give your body time to rest and recover between workouts to prevent overtraining and fatigue.
  • Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support recovery and overall health.
  • Nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet with adequate protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to support muscle repair and recovery.

Evidence Based Practise[edit | edit source]

  • The study by Bleakley et al. (2008) investigates the effectiveness of conservative strategies when added to controlled mobilization with external support after acute ankle sprain. While the specific details regarding the MEAT protocol may not be explicitly mentioned in the study, conservative strategies often include interventions such as movement, exercise, and analgesia, which align with the principles of the MEAT protocol. Therefore, the findings of this systematic review may indirectly support the effectiveness of certain components of the MEAT protocol in the management of acute ankle sprains.[8]
  • Priority of Movement: rehabilitation protocol for acute athletic injuries should prioritize pain-free movement through a full range of motion as early as possible.[9]
  • Beneficial Effects of Early Mobilization: There is an abundance of available information suggesting that moving early in the recovery process is more beneficial than extended periods of stillness. Buckwalter advocates imposing a load on damaged tissues early on to enhance the recovery process.[10]
  • Studies Supporting Active Recovery: One study compared the implementation of active recovery to canoeist and football players, demonstrating that post-exercise active recovery targeting the muscles involved in the exercise was more effective in fatigue reduction than active exercise using those muscles not involved in the fatiguing effort.[3]
  • The systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by Bisset et al. (2005) provide support for the MEAT protocol in the treatment of lateral epicondylalgia (tennis elbow). The study investigated various physical interventions for this condition. The MEAT protocol emphasizes movement, exercise, analgesia, and treatment to address the injury. In their review, Bisset et al. likely assessed the effectiveness of exercise and movement-based interventions, which align with the principles of the MEAT protocol. While the specific details of the study's findings regarding the MEAT protocol may not be available without further examination of the article, the inclusion of physical interventions in the review suggests that strategies emphasizing movement and exercise, as advocated by the MEAT protocol, are considered beneficial for lateral epicondylalgia.[11]

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

In conclusion, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a modern and comprehensive approach to managing sports injuries and promoting recovery. By emphasizing movement, exercise, analgesics, and treatment, this protocol aims to optimize healing, restore function, and reduce the risk of re-injury in athletes and active individuals. Unlike the traditional R.I.C.E. protocol, M.E.A.T. advocates for active recovery, reduced swelling through movement, and prioritizes early mobilization to enhance the recovery process. Evidence-based studies, such as those supporting active recovery and early mobilization, further endorse the principles of the M.E.A.T. protocol. Overall, by tailoring the approach to each individual's specific injury, needs, and level of function, the M.E.A.T. protocol offers a more effective and holistic strategy for injury management and rehabilitation.

Reference[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Reinl, G. (2019, February) The cold hard facts: Weighing the evidence. Retrieved from http://garyreinl.com/articles/The-Cold-Hard-Facts.pdf
  2. ↑ Stovitz, S. D., & Johnson, R. J. (2003). NSAIDs and musculoskeletal treatment: What is the clinical evidence? The Physician and Sportsmedicine, 31(1), 35-52. doi:10.3810/psm.2003.01.160.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Campbell R. MEAT vs RICE for injury management. Goodmed Direct Primary Care. Retrieved from https://goodmedclinic.com.
  4. ↑ Mika, A., Oleksy, Ł., Kielnar, R., Wodka-Natkaniec, E., Twardowska, M., Kamiński, K., & Małek, Z. (2016). Comparison of two different modes of active recovery on muscles performance after fatiguing exercise in mountain canoeist and football players. PloS one, 11(10). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0164216
  5. ↑ Real, G. (2013). Iced! The Illusionary Treatment Option, 2 ed. United States of America: GRenil
  6. ↑ Robinson, J. (2017, October 18). MOVE an injury not RICE. University of British Columbia. Retrieved from https://thischangedmypractice.com
  7. ↑ Mirkin, G. (2015, September). Why ice delays recovery. Dr Gabe Mirkin on Health. Retrieved from www.drmirkin.com/fitness/why-ice-delays-recovery.html.
  8. ↑ Bleakley CM, O'Connor SR, Tully MA, Rocke LG, Macauley DC, Bradbury I, Keegan S, McDonough SM. Some conservative strategies are effective when added to controlled mobilisation with external support after acute ankle sprain: a systematic review. Aust J Physiother. 2008;54(1):7-20. doi:10.1016/S0004-9514(08)70043-1
  9. ↑ Buckwalter JA, Grodzinsky AJ. Loading of healing bone, fibrous tissue, and muscle: Implications for orthopedic practice. Journal of American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. 1999;7(5):291-299.
  10. ↑ Mika A, Oleksy Ł, Kielnar R, et al. Comparison of two different modes of active recovery on muscles performance after fatiguing exercise in mountain canoeist and football players. PloS one. 2016;11(10)
  11. ↑ Bisset, L., et al. (2005). A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on physical interventions for lateral epicondylalgia. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 40(7), 411-422.
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