How to reduce swelling from a hand injury, and what is the fastest method?
Generally, swelling can be reduced through methods such as cold compresses, elevating the injured hand, compression, warm compresses, and medication. If abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Cold compress: Within 48 hours after the injury, apply an ice pack or a wet cold towel to the affected area for 10–15 minutes each time, multiple times daily. Cold compress helps constrict blood vessels, reducing bleeding and swelling. However, avoid direct contact between ice and skin to prevent frostbite.
2. Elevate the injured hand: While resting, try to keep the injured hand elevated above heart level. This helps reduce blood flow to the injured area and thus alleviates swelling.
3. Compression: Apply an elastic bandage to the injured hand with moderate pressure to help reduce localized swelling. However, ensure the bandage isn't too tight, as it may impair circulation.
4. Warm compress: After 48 hours post-injury, if swelling remains significant, a warm compress may be used to improve circulation and relieve swelling. A hot water bag or wet warm towel can be applied to the affected area for 10–15 minutes each time, several times daily.
5. Medication: Under a doctor's guidance, oral medications that promote blood circulation, remove blood stasis, and relieve pain can be taken, such as Sanqi Injury Medicine Tablets, Huoxue Zhitong Capsules, and Quyu Sanjie Capsules. These medications help dissipate blood stasis, relieve pain, promote circulation, and relax muscles, thereby improving local swelling, bruising, and pain. Additionally, topical medications such as Yunnan Baiyao Aerosol or Shangke Ling Spray can also be applied externally to the swollen area.
If hand swelling is severe, accompanied by intense pain or limited mobility, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are advised. Additionally, strenuous activities or excessive movement of the injured hand should be avoided during recovery to prevent worsening of swelling and injury.
 
         
            
         
         
                 
             
                                 
                                 
                                 
                                 
                                 
                                


