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Rest and protect any sore area by stopping or limiting activities. Especially stop, change, or take a break from any activity that may be causing your pain or soreness. Not only is this highly advisable to prevent further damage and pain, it is also the best home remedy for swelling.
Elevate the injured area on pillows while applying ice anytime you are sitting or lying down. Try to keep the area at or above the level of your heart to help minimize the swelling. This is also a good natural remedy for edema.
Avoid sitting or standing without moving for prolonged periods of time. Exercising the legs decreases the effect of gravity, if this is not overly painful.
Low-sodium diets help to reduce swelling.
Drinking plenty of fluids also helps to prevent swelling.
Try a nonprescription medicine to help treat your swelling or edema. These are medications like Acetaminophen, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Aspirin (also a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Follow instructions on the packaging.
Remember the acronym, RICE (not the granulated food kind). Rest, ice, compression, and elevation. The sooner you do all four of them the better off you will be.
Remember also that most swelling will go away. If it does not it may be a sign of more significant health problems or damage. If it does not go away in a relative short period of time, please consult with a doctor.
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