How should you treat a common injury immediately after it happens?
Immediately after your injury
- Rest. Resting is one of the most effective ways to start your healing process.
- Ice. The benefits of applying ice are greatest within the first day or two after sustaining an injury.
- Compress.
- Elevate.
How many days should you ice an injury?
Rules to Remember: If an injury has occurred to any body part within three days, ice is preferred — 20 minutes on and 30 to 40 minutes off. Pain to the back, neck and large muscle groups like quads, hamstrings and calves will respond well to heat after three days of injury.
What is best for muscle pain ice or heat?
As a general rule of thumb, use ice for acute injuries or pain, along with inflammation and swelling. Use heat for muscle pain or stiffness.
Is heat good for tight muscles?
Heat increases the blood flow and circulation to stressed or painful tissues and joints. Heat also loosens tight trigger points and softens muscles to decrease stiffness and increase flexibility. If you’re experiencing muscle spasms or chronic back pain, place a heating pad in the area for 15-20 minutes to reduce pain.
How do I get rid of fluid in my legs and feet?
Home Care
- Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down.
- Exercise your legs.
- Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
- Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores).
- When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around.
Does lemon water help edema?
The antioxidants in lemons are also powerful anti-inflammatory agents. They can help to reduce swelling (even minor internal swelling), thereby enabling your body to repair any damaged tissue.
Is edema in the legs life threatening?
Some edema can be expected, such as swollen ankles when you’re pregnant or a traumatic ankle sprain; but edema can be caused by life-threatening conditions, such as heart disease or kidney failure.
How do I get rid of edema in my legs?
Compression stockings
- Movement. Moving and using the muscles in the part of your body affected by edema, especially your legs, may help pump the excess fluid back toward your heart.
- Elevation.
- Massage.
- Compression.
- Protection.
- Reduce salt intake.
What does severe edema look like?
Signs of edema include: Swelling or puffiness of the tissue directly under your skin, especially in your legs or arms. Stretched or shiny skin. Skin that retains a dimple (pits), after being pressed for several seconds.
When should you go to the hospital for swollen feet and legs?
You should go to the hospital immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms along with foot, leg, and ankle swelling: pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest area. dizziness. confusion.