how can i reduce swelling for a knee injury?(hot or cold)?

Question

I tripped over a dog gate and knee first hit floor tile

Answer 1

Ice.

Rest--not strict bed rest, but a decrease in your usual level of activity.
Ice - Ice is the fastest available pain relief and limits swelling. Usually twenty minute intervals on then off for a few hours is adequate. It probably has little value after the first 24 hours. Although there are proponents ice, heat, or both after the 24 hour period to speed healing.
Ibuprofen - 10 milligrams per kilogram every 6 hours as needed. For older adolescents weighing more than 40 kilograms (88 lbs) 400 milligrams is appropriate. Usually two days of therapy is adequate. Concern that the anti-inflammatory properties of ibuprofen will inhibit healing over this short period is unwarranted.
Elevation- The importance of elevation is often overlooked, but it is an easy, effective way to reduce swelling and the pain due to swelling.
Compression wrap- Frequently called an "Ace" wrap (one available brand), the wrap serves to hold ice bags in place and limit swelling. Pain and numbness will occur if the wrap is too tight.
Medical or orthopedic evaluation if appropriate.
http://www.pediatricplanet.com/childrenshealth.aspx?i=557

Answer 2

As far as I've ever heard, people are told to be ice on a new injury to keep the swelling down. Hot is often recommended for pain after the swelling issue has been dealt with (or in situations where swelling was never a factor).

Take a couple of aspirins. They tend to make a whole lot of things a little better! (The anti-inflammatory aspect of them makes them pretty useful.)

Answer 3

Just Ice 10-15 mins on 10 mins off

Answer 4

Ice first to reduce swelling then apply heat to relax muscle tension after numbed by the ice. Trust me I know this my dad is a paramedic/fireman. Hope ur feelin better. you may also want to wrap it for the next couple of days.

Answer 5

You want cold to reduce the swelling, hot for pain relief. Get well my friend!

Answer 6

Use an ice pack on for 15 minutes off for 15 minutes until
swelling and pain subside.

Answer 7

Cold is better. For most injuries you should follow the acronym RICE; R=rest, IC=ice, and E=elevation. (I think that's what it stands for anyway) I've sprained my ankle on several occasions and I was always told by my doctor to keep it cold (not too cold, you don't want frostbite) and to keep it elevated.

Answer 8

Cold reduces swelling. If you can take it try some Ibuprofen also.

Answer 9

cold compression over affected area 3-5 min., wait 2or 3min. and re-apply. if swelling persist go to hospital. Hope it helps! GOOD LUCK!

Answer 10

I have always heard to use ice when an injury first happens and heat later on...however, personally, ice has always worked for me when heat didn't.