How to decrease swelling?

Swelling is an ailment that can affect anyone from young to old. Whether it be due to an injury, medical condition or just being plain unlucky, swelling can be a real pain in the you-know-what. In this guide, we’re going to cover some tips and tricks on how to decrease swelling and get back on your feet.

Ice, ice baby!

One of the most effective ways of reducing swelling is by using ice. No, not the kind you put in your drink (although that might help with stress-induced swelling), but rather a cold compress applied directly onto the affected area. The ice will constrict blood vessels which will reduce blood flow and inflammation.

How do you make an ice pack? Simple! Just fill a baggie full of crushed ice (or use frozen peas if you’re feeling fancy) and wrap it with a thin towel before holding it against your swollen joint for about 15 minutes at a time.

Pro-tip: We know that getting up for more ice every 15 minutes can be straining so stock up beforehand!

Elevate yo’ limbs!

When life doesn’t necessarily hand us lemons but instead hands us swollen limbs what should we do? Elevate them! Raising an inflamed limb above heart level reduces fluid build-up which decreases puffiness on areas such as wrists and ankles.

Whether sitting or lying down just think ‘above my knees please.’ You definitely won’t regret demonstrating Queen Elizabeth’s wave while also giving yourself sweet sweet relief from throbbing discomfort.

Pro-tip: If heavy duty elevation isn’t readily accessible try laying down flat whilst placing comfy pillows below where our dear old body hurts!

Keep moving…just don’t bounce around too much

Physical activity stimulates circulation allowing our bodies blood supply access throughout out veins promoting healing thus subsiding any pesky bloating and swelling. This being said be careful not to overdo it!

Going from zero-to-hero post injury is one of the worst mistakes you can make. You might find yourself jumping around feeling like superman or woman at first but your joints will certainly pay for it later.

Pro-tip: Listen to your body and consult with a knowledgeable medical professional before starting any physical therapy!

OTC Meds ARE just what the doctor ordered

Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen reduces swelling by preventing inflammation due metabolites produced within our bodies responses during injuries. Not only do meds reduce swelling, they also relieve symptoms that come along with swelling like pain!

Pro-tip: Before taking medication WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND ANYONE TO SEEK MEDIACAL ADVICE! No need to play Dr. House because we all know how that ends…

Put down the processed snacks and order some Chinese Takeout

Our diet can potentiate inflammation in more ways than one whether consuming too much sugar, saturated fats or processed foods increases likelihood for developing chronic related conditions overtime causing permanent harm such as heart disease etc…

That’s why treating ourselves once in a while doesn’t sound half bad huh? Lets eat dumplings instead of chips we’ll have fried rice instead of mashed potatoes, all whilst decreasing sodium intake ensuring relief from our bloated inflamed selves.

Pro-tip: Do not replace a balanced diet plan entirely – this has the potential develop into an idea far worse than lactose intolerance (Which BTWs isn’t something eradicated by air fresheners).

Note when its time for Surgical Intervention

Swelling is sometimes inevitable yet occasionally reaching out straightaway versus waiting could provide us better outcomes when dealing with surgery interventions. If rest/exercise shows no signs of improvement seeking specialist attention may prove beneficial!

Pro-tip: Expeditious treatment can allow not just reduction but also long standing management over future complications.

HYDRATION STATION!

The more hydrated we stay the lower probability of having stagnant blood which can lead to increased bloating and painful swelling.

Pro-tip: Drinking fresh water instead of juice or soda keeps sodium levels proportionate without causing inflammation!

Acupuncture (hear us out)

Acupuncture has been used for centuries as an ancient Chinese therapy involving sterile needle puncture along meridian lines throughout our body. It helps release energy blockages, improve circulation promoting healing with decreased swollen joint pain.

Pro-tip: Not all insurance providers cover acupuncture so check before pinning your hope on this remedy!!!

Final words

Swelling aside from the occasional puffing during allergies to massive post-injury swelling in ankles is a hurdle that everyone will experience at least once in their lifetimes. Reducing it’s impact through ice elevations, monitoring diet and hydration alongside further medical care if need be ultimately aids lessening its troubling qualities.

We hope you’ve found these lighthearted tips helpful enough to keep your joints feeling happy, healthy and relieved!

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