Fact Checked
Swelling is the enlargement of skin, organs and other body parts. It is caused by accumulation of fluid in the tissues. It can also result from rapid increase in weight over some time. Swelling can develop in all areas of the body or generalized or localized to a specific region.
Swelling occurs because of an injury, pregnancy and other medical conditions. If not properly treated, swelling can cause severe pain. Swelling is the reaction of the body to minor trauma.
Treatment of swelling
- Rest the area especially in cases due to an injury or poor blood circulation. If there is inflammation of the foot and ankle, avoid performing strenuous activities for at least a few days until the swelling lessens.
- If the foot is injured, use crutches or a cane to lessen the pressure placed on the swollen area. Minimize walking or running if it is an ankle, hip and knee injury.
- Apply a cold compress on the swollen area immediately for at least 15 minutes at a time several times every day.
- Apply compression on the affected area using an elastic bandage to lessen the swelling. Avoid wrapping it too tightly to prevent disruption in the blood circulation to the area. If there is tingling sensation, numbness, intensifying pain and swelling below the bandage, loosen the wrap to prevent further damage to the area.
- Elevate the affected area of the body above the level of the heart. If sitting or lying down, elevate the swollen area on stacks of pillows for proper blood circulation and prevent accumulation of fluids in the area. If the swelling is severe, elevate the area for at least several hours.
- Use a sling in elevating an injured arm to prevent unnecessary movement and for fast healing of the condition.
- Perform gentle stretches when the inflammation reduces. Slowly increase the range of motion of the affected areas such as the leg, feet, arm and knees.
Additional measures
- Soak the body in an Epsom salt solution. Soaking in Epsom salt can lessen minor inflammation by releasing magnesium ions that fights the pain receptor of the brain. Soak the affected area for at least 1-2 days or longer.
- Take the prescribed over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Perform regular low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming and yoga .
Disclaimer / More Information
The material posted on this page on swelling from minor injuries is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage swelling by taking a first aid and CPR class with one of our training providers.
FACT CHECK
https://www.healthline.com/symptom/swelling