How to reduce swelling after removing cast from fracture? Summary of hot topics and practical methods across the Internet in 10 days
Removal of the cast after a fracture is an important stage of recovery, but swelling often troubles patients. Based on the hot topics on the Internet in the past 10 days, this article compiles scientific swelling reduction methods and precautions to help you recover quickly.
1. Analysis of causes of swelling after plaster removal (data statistics)

| Reason type | Proportion | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Poor blood circulation | 42% | Skin turns purple and rebounds slowly when pressed |
| interstitial fluid retention | 35% | Skin feels shiny and tight |
| inflammatory response | 18% | Local fever and mild pain |
| other factors | 5% | allergy or infection symptoms |
2. Top 5 methods for reducing swelling that are hotly discussed on the Internet
1.step pressure therapy(TikTok’s hot topic #rehabilitation tips)
• Wrap an elastic bandage from distal to proximal
• Loosen for 15 minutes every 4 hours
• Use compression socks instead at night
2.alternating hot and cold therapy(The collection of Xiaohongshu exceeds 20,000)
| time | Operation | temperature |
|---|---|---|
| morning | Apply ice | 15-20℃ |
| Afternoon | Hot compress | 40-45℃ |
| before going to bed | Soak in warm water | 38-40℃ |
3.Traditional Chinese medicine external application program(Top 3 health topics on Weibo)
• Rhubarb + Glauber's salt (3:1 ratio) vinegar for external application
• Changed twice daily
• Pay attention to skin allergy testing
4.Rehabilitation Exercise Guide(Recommended by the master of Bilibili Medical UP)
| stage | action | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Toe/finger flexion and extension | 10 times per hour |
| Week 2 | Passive movement of joints | 3 groups per day |
| Week 3 | resistance training | Carry out every other day |
5.Diet plan(Zhihu highly praised answer)
• Eat more potassium-containing foods: bananas, spinach
• Vitamin C supplement: citrus, kiwi fruit
• Limit salt intake: <5g per day
3. Precautions (key reminders from doctors)
1.Be alert for abnormal swelling: If the following conditions occur, you need to seek medical treatment immediately
• Swelling with severe pain
• Skin blisters or sores
• Body temperature exceeds 38℃
2.step by step principle:
• Avoid weight bearing for the first week
• Start with 10% body weight load and increase increments
• Transition to crutches for 2-3 weeks
3.Sleeping position recommendations:
• Upper limb fracture elevation 15-20cm
• Lower limb fractures keep feet higher than heart
• Use special bolsters to maintain posture
4. Rehabilitation time reference table
| fracture type | average swelling period | full recovery period |
|---|---|---|
| distal radius | 7-10 days | 4-6 weeks |
| ankle joint | 10-14 days | 6-8 weeks |
| tibia and fibula | 14-21 days | 8-12 weeks |
Conclusion:The swelling after the cast is removed is a normal physiological reaction and can usually be significantly improved in 2-3 weeks through scientific care. It is recommended to review regularly and adjust the rehabilitation plan based on individual circumstances. If swelling continues to worsen, please contact your attending physician promptly.
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