Swelling after an injury typically worsens for the first 2 to 4 days and can then persist for up to 3 months as your body heals.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Initial Swelling (Days 1-4): Expect swelling to increase during this period following an injury. This is a natural inflammatory response as the body begins the healing process.
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Continued Swelling (Weeks 1-12): Swelling may persist for up to three months while the body continues to repair itself. The intensity of the swelling should gradually decrease over this time.
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When to Seek Medical Advice: If the swelling lasts longer than three months or if you experience increased pain, redness, warmth, or loss of function, consult a physical therapist or doctor to rule out any complications or delayed healing. They can investigate the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Persistent swelling beyond the typical healing timeframe may indicate:
- Infection: An infection can cause prolonged inflammation.
- Re-injury: Further damage to the area can restart the healing process.
- Underlying medical condition: Certain conditions can affect the body's ability to heal.
Therefore, while swelling is a normal part of the healing process, it's important to monitor its duration and intensity and seek professional medical advice if it persists longer than expected.
