knee pain and swelling do i use heat or cold?ok, i just got done pitching (in softball) and my knee hurts pretty bad, and it's swollen. its slightly above my knee cap and to the right of it. what could be wrong with my knee? should i go to the doctor? and should i put heat on it or cold?
thanks
by the way, its been hurting for a couple weeks, but only after i pitch or run.
- pg
ice , elevation , ibuprofen and ace wrap it. if that doesnt help go to the doctor
- spice girl
i would rotate it i have has a knee replacement and when it rains or snows it bothers me when i do that it eases off try some ice hot pads
- kndykisz
take Ibuprophen for the swelling and put ice on your knee......it sounds like you may have just twisted it wrong. A doctor is not necessary unless the swelling and pain doesnt subside in a couple of days.
- ~Shortstuff~
Make an appointment to see your doctor & in the meantime, try one of those heat patches. If it doesn't help, try applying ice on the knee for ten minute intervals.
- Mommy2One
For the first 48 to 72 hours use ice, elevation (above your heart is the best) and rest it as much as possible. You can also take ibuprofen or tylenol for the pain and swelling. After 48 to 72 hours you can use heat if you need to. I hope you feel better soon.
EDIT: I see that the answers are split, some say heat, some say ice, so I found this that I think will help you. You should definitely use ice for at least the first 48 hours. Good luck.
Ice or Heat?
Ice Heat
When To Use Use ice after an acute injury, such as an ankle sprain, or after activities that irritate a chronic injury, such as shin splints. Use heat before activities that irritate chronic injuries such as muscle strains. Heat can help loosen tissues and relax injured areas.
How To Do It Read through the information on how to ice an injury. There are several ways to ice an injury. Heating pads or hot wet towels are both excellent methods. Place a washcloth under hot tap water and then apply to the injured area.
For How Long Apply ice treatments for no longer than 20 minutes at a time. Too much ice can do harm, even cause frostbite; more ice application does not mean more relief. It is not necessary to apply a heat treatment for more than about 20 minutes at a time. Never apply heat while sleeping
There is more information along with this chart at the following web address: http://orthopedics.about.com/cs/sportsmedicine/a/iceorheat.htm
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