There have been many amazing advances in surgical procedures. In many cases, surgery can be completed without major incisions. Still, almost every surgical procedure brings with it the risk of postoperative pain, swelling and bruising. 

It’s a lot to deal with in addition to all the other circumstances and symptoms of your surgery. But there’s some good news. If you can reduce post-surgery swelling, it can help you reduce inflammation, pain, bruising and even speed-up wound healing and the recovery process too.  

Use RICE to Reduce Post-Surgery Swelling

Before you ask someone to visit the bulk grocery store, R.I.C.E stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Your post-surgical care may include doctor-prescribed pain medication, dietary guidelines and physiotherapy. But RICE is also often prescribed by doctors to reduce swelling and it's something you can do to help your own recovery.

Always check with your doctor before doing any post-op treatment.

Here’s how RICE can work to reduce swelling due to almost all types of abdominal, arm and leg surgery.

• Rest - Your doctor will give you instructions about how to limit your activity to reduce the chance of complications after your surgery. It is crucial that you follow them even if they seem minor or you feel better. If you don’t, you risk suffering prolonged issues, such as infection, tearing or excessive bleeding.
  
  
• Ice - Applying an ice pack on the affected areas can reduce swelling, pain and inflammation by narrowing blood vessels and reducing the leakage of the fluids that cause swelling.
  
  
• Compression - Wearing compression garments, including Mass & Slim’s Active Slim Sports Leggings, helps reduce swelling by keeping fluids from building up in the affected area and promotes healing lymph and blood flow.
  
  
• Elevate - Elevating your leg or arm above the level of your heart while you’re lying down reduces swelling (sometimes known as lymphedema) by helping fluids drain from the area.

If you found this post helpful, check out our recent article about how to treat lymphedema at home.