How to Relieve Knee & Leg Swelling
Knee and leg swelling is an inflammation of the joints or muscles due to injury or arthritis. An often-used treatment for swelling includes the R.I.C.E. method, which stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Other treatment options include over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and heat therapy. These at-home treatments should be used for no more than four days, as persistent swelling could be caused by a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
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Things You'll Need
- Ice pack
- Medical bandage
- Heating pad
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
Instructions
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Use R.I.C.E. method. Rest your knee or leg by staying off of it for 24 to 48 hours. Apply an ice pack to the inflamed area. Firmly wrap the area with a medical bandage for compression and stability, but avoid wrapping it tightly as you can cut off circulation. Do not keep the ice pack on for longer than 20 minutes, as skin irritation may occur. Elevate your leg to relieve pressure.
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Take anti-inflammatory medication. NSAIDs can reduce swelling and inflammation when used twice daily. Nausea, vomiting, constipation or headaches are common side effects of taking medication. Do not take NSAIDs for longer than three days, as blood thinning may occur.
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Use a heating pad for 20 minutes, 20 minutes after icing. Heat therapy soothes your aching muscles and reduces inflammation. Wrap the heating pad in a thin cloth or towel before applying it to your skin, as burning can occur if placed directly on the skin.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not engage in strenuous physical activity while recovering from your injury, as you can worsen the condition.
