An ankle, knee, shoulder, finger or wrist… A sprain is a more or less light trauma of a joint, caused by too strong a twist that will stretch or tear a ligament. It can happen to anyone at any time. During a sports session, while descending stairs or simply walking, especially if you like high heels. There are natural remedies to relieve a sprain and speed up its healing.
What natural remedies to relieve a sprain?
Cold
This is the first good reflex to reduce the swelling that can occur after a sprain. The cold will reduce inflammation and act as a painkiller. If you have peas or cherry pits in the freezer, put them in a plastic bag to surround your injury. This is ideal because their small round shapes will fit your anatomy. Alternatively, you can simply use a bag with ice cubes. In both cases, wrap the bag with a cloth to avoid burns. Leave it on for about fifteen minutes and repeat several times a day if the swelling persists, without using your joint (this means that if you have twisted your knee or ankle, you should avoid walking without a splint).
The immobilization
Step two is to immobilize the sprained joint. Depending on the severity of the sprain, you will need to consult your doctor, who will prescribe either a strapping, a splint or a boot, or even a cast if the sprain is severe or the ligament torn. You should be alarmed if the limb is very swollen and has a large hematoma. If the sprain is mild and there is no swelling or bruising, rest the injury as much as possible. Wear high shoes, a knee brace, walk as little as possible for a few days… And follow the advice above and below.
Green clay
Green clay, is a true gift of nature. Animals even use it instinctively in mud baths to heal themselves. And it is also an old remedy from our grandmothers to relieve a sprain. Acting as an anti-inflammatory, it will help to deflate. Apply it in a thick layer on the painful area and then wrap it with cling film, without being too tight. This will prevent you from getting dirty and will keep the clay moist. You can make this poultice with ventilated green clay to be mixed in a little water, or with ready-made paste. It is a very economical remedy.
Essential oils
Arnica and wintergreen are two plants with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Simply add two drops of essential oil (of either one or the other or mix them) to a vegetable oil. Then gently massage your sprain, until the preparation penetrates. To renew 3 times a day while wearing your brace or under your strapping according to the prescribed immobilization method. You can also use these essential oils in a foot bath (or hand bath!) to relieve yourself. Pour about ten drops in a basin of cold water and soak your wound for 10 minutes.
Hydration and pineapple juice
Proper hydration is essential for the health of ligaments and tendons. Especially in case of effort. Poorly hydrated muscles, ligaments or tendons tear more easily. Hydration is also vital to their healing. So remember to drink water regularly. You can alternate with pineapple juice, an excellent anti-edema treatment.
Be careful. These natural remedies help relieve the pain of a sprain and reduce inflammation. They also help speed up healing. But they do not in any way dispense you from consulting your doctor. If he prescribes a cast, you will of course not be able to apply them. Otherwise, don’t deprive yourself of them. And to avoid recurrences and long-term stiffness, especially after immobilisation, you will have to undergo rehabilitation with a physiotherapist.