Why elevation helps swelling

Swelling from knee injuries can impact your range of motion in the joint and make it difficult to walk. If mobility is an issue, consider using a crutch, a cane, or another assistive device to keep pressure off the leg while you recover from a knee injury. Their larger surface area also makes smaller ice packs less effective, which is why the body-conforming wraps used in cold therapy systems are beneficial.

Applying compression to the groin, quadriceps, or hamstrings is also not as easy with elastic bandages, making active compression wraps a good alternative for injuries in leg tissues. Swelling is a natural response to injury, but left unchecked, it may prolong your recovery time. Be proactive with tactics such as elevation, cold therapy, and compression to help your body heal faster. All content found on this website, including text, images, audio, or other formats were created for informational purposes only.

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Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. When the body is injured, whether from sports or overexertion, the immune system responds with swelling and inflammation. It is typically the result of inflammation or a buildup of fluid. Edema describes swelling in the tissue outside of the joint. Effusion describes swelling that is inside a joint, such as a swollen ankle or knee.

Hemarthrosis is a condition where there is blood and swelling within a joint. This indicates either a ligament injury, such as an ACL tear or a fracture. Hemarthrosis is determined by removing some fluid from the joint with a needle. Acute refers to swelling that occurs within 24 hours of injury. If the swelling occurs within the first 2 hours, it is probably associated with hemarthrosis and should be checked out by a physician.

Chronic refers to swelling that occurs over a long period of time and can be difficult for an athlete to detect, but is very harmful if left untreated. The body always responds to an injury with a predictable inflammatory response, as the first step towards healing. Redness, heat, swelling and pain are associated with this first stage.

Redness and heat are caused by increased blood flow. A review associated with the Red Cross confirmed that ice was effective immediately after an injury. However, the researchers determined that immobilizing an injured limb may not be helpful. They found no evidence to support elevation. They also found indications that compression may not aid strains or sprains. However, the RICE treatment method remains widely and frequently recommended for a wide variety of injuries.

Following the steps below may help to treat a mild or moderate injury. Begin immediately after an injury, and continue treatment for the next 24—48 hours. The method is not recommended to treat broken bones or more serious injuries to soft tissue. These may require medication, surgery, or extensive physical therapy. Most support the idea of resting, or immobilizing, an injured body part immediately after an injury.

Yet, some studies have shown that deliberate, guided movements can be helpful as recovery progresses. Some physical therapists take a dim view of applying ice and other efforts to prevent inflammation. Medical Review: William H. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.

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