Inflammation: Acute
Inflammation is the body’s reaction to protect and repair itself. This natural process channels more blood to the area, resulting in accumulation of fluid in that region. This will cause the site to swell, increase in warmth, redness, and pain. Inflammation is vital for healing, and protection; however, excessive amounts of inflammation can hinder healing.
Inflammation can be categorized into 2 general types: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation occurs immediately as a response to trauma. It is the focus of this section. Inflammation caused by infection is a different type of inflammation and will be explained in another section.
Treatment:
To reduce acute inflammation, and decrease swelling proper treatment must be implemented. This includes the following:
If the symptoms of inflammation do not improve within 2 to 3 days, or the pain worsens after 3 days, please consult a foot and ankle specialist for further workup.
Inflammation is the body’s reaction to protect and repair itself. This natural process channels more blood to the area, resulting in accumulation of fluid in that region. This will cause the site to swell, increase in warmth, redness, and pain. Inflammation is vital for healing, and protection; however, excessive amounts of inflammation can hinder healing.
Inflammation can be categorized into 2 general types: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation occurs immediately as a response to trauma. It is the focus of this section. Inflammation caused by infection is a different type of inflammation and will be explained in another section.
Treatment:
To reduce acute inflammation, and decrease swelling proper treatment must be implemented. This includes the following:
- Rest: Stay off the foot or ankle. Walking may cause further injury.
- Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again.
- Compression: An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling.
- Elevation: The foot or ankle should be raised slightly above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs): This type of medication can decrease inflammation.
If the symptoms of inflammation do not improve within 2 to 3 days, or the pain worsens after 3 days, please consult a foot and ankle specialist for further workup.