Question

in 1978, dr. gabe mirkin came up with the
ice\ (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) protocol and began using this method to treat soft tissue injuries like ankle sprains. in the next few decades, rice became the go - to method prescribed by orthopedists and physical therapists for athletes recovering from such injuries. however, in 2015, mirkin himself publicly stated that complete rest and ice may actually delay healing, as both had been shown to reduce beneficial blood flow to the injury. therefore, ______
which choice most logically completes the text?
choose 1 answer:
a the rice protocol may not be as effective as previously thought.
b it is common for doctors to change their minds about treatment protocols.
c using the rice protocol for soft tissue injuries may lead to additional damage.
d the rice protocol is effective for treating ankle sprains, but not for treating other types of injuries.

Explanation:

The text first mentions that RICE was a go - to method. Then it states that in 2015, Mirkin (the originator) said rest and ice (parts of RICE) may delay healing as they reduce beneficial blood flow. So, the logical conclusion is about the effectiveness of RICE.

• Option A: Since two components (rest and ice) of RICE may delay healing, it can be inferred that RICE may not be as effective as previously thought. This option aligns with the text's reasoning.
• Option B: The text is specifically about RICE, not about doctors changing their minds in general. This is too broad.
• Option C: The text only says it may delay healing (due to reduced blood flow), not that it causes additional damage.
• Option D: The text does not compare RICE's effectiveness for ankle sprains vs other injuries. It focuses on the general effectiveness of RICE components.

Answer:

A. the RICE protocol may not be as effective as previously thought.