Don’t Sweat It! Use The R.I.C.E Method For A Foot Injury (Swollen Foot)

Don't Sweat It Use The R.I.C.E Method For A Foot Injury Swollen Foot

Foot Injuries (Swollen Foot) Are Not Cause For Concern

Foot injuries such as swollen feet are due to a variety of causes. Overuse, injury (such as during exercise), or pregnancy can cause swollen feet. In most cases, the injuries are not severe, and demand short home treatment. The most important measure to take with foot injuries is to reduce swelling.

In some cases, foot injuries such as swollen feet can be accompanied by other symptoms which may indicate another underlying health condition.

Seek Medical Attention In Case Of An Emergency

Some cases of foot injuries require urgent care. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing the following symptoms in addition to a swollen foot:

  • unexplained, painful swelling of your feet or legs.
  • warmth, redness, or inflammation in the affected area.
  • swelling that’s accompanied by a fever.
  • new foot swelling during pregnancy.
  • shortness of breath.
  • swelling of only one limb.
  • chest pain, pressure, or tightness.

Some Causes Of A Foot Injury

1) Edema

A foot injury can be due to edema. Edema is a condition where excess fluid accumulates in a part of the body causing puffiness or swelling. The swelling can be under the skin the ankles, legs, or foot. It can also affect the hands and arms.

2) Pregnancy

“Some foot swelling is extremely common during pregnancy since your body retains more water and produces more blood and body fluids. You may be more prone to swollen feet in the evening and especially after being on your feet all day. It becomes particularly noticeable from the fifth month until the end of your pregnancy.”

3) Side Effects Of Medication

Some medications and their side effects can cause foot injuries since they can cause fluids to collect in the lower part of the body. Some symptoms of side effects of the medication include:

  • hormones such as estrogen and testosterone
  • calcium channel blockers (a type of blood pressure medication)
  • steroids
  • antidepressants
  • ACE inhibitors
  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • diabetes medications

Use The R.I.C.E. Method In Case Of A Foot Injury

Don't Sweat It Use The R.I.C.E Method For A Foot Injury Swollen Foot

In case of a foot injury such as a swollen leg, use the R.I.C.E. method. R.I.C.E. stands for Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevation.

Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may recommend an over-counter medication or a pain reliever. You may need to wear a brace or a splint. The injury may also require surgery.

Consult with your doctor to determine your level of activity and how much weight you can put on your foot. Also, contact your doctor if you experience numbness.

Prevention Is The Best Remedy

While medication and treatment are very effective against a foot injury, prevention is the best medicine. Below are some activities you can engage in to prevent foot injuries:

  • Take a short walk every hour.
  • Drink eight to 10 glasses of water daily. Drinking less actually promotes swelling.
  • Limit your salt and carbohydrate intake.
  • Put phone books or bricks under the foot of your bed to elevate your legs and feet at night.

Other methods for prevention include using essential oils such as peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, lavender, or chamomile.

If You Work Out, Avoid Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is caused by particularly intense muscle work-outs that cause micro-tears in the muscles. There are remedies you can use, in order to avoid micro-tears in your muscles or even foot. Micro-tears can cause inflammation. Below are some remedies:

4) Massage

Though a massage may worsen Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, it actually can help relax the area of the body affected. The important part is to focus on a light therapeutic massage.

5) Stay Hydrated

Hydration is a good preventive measure for DOMS. The importance of hydration is to improve circulation in areas of the body while working out and thus prevent DOMS.

See A Doctor

Foot injuries can have complications. See a doctor immediately if you experience these severe symptoms:

  • skin that retains a dimple after you press it.
  • stretched or broken skin in the affected area.
  • pain and swelling that doesn’t get better.
  • leg ulcerations or blisters.
  • chest pain, pressure, or tightness.
  • shortness of breath.
  • swelling on only one side.

Blisters and sores can create infections. Also, monitor your feet. Do not wear shoes that are too tight since they may cause wounds. Swelling on one side is serious, contact a doctor, since it can cause a deep vein thrombosis.

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