"Which Foods Facilitate Swift Recovery from a Sprained Ankle?"
When the tendons of the foot are injured, it is advisable to consume foods rich in protein and calcium, or take anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, as well as traditional Chinese medicines that promote blood circulation, relieve pain, and relax the tendons. These measures can help alleviate discomfort and facilitate recovery.
1. Consume foods high in protein and calcium, such as meat, milk, and eggs, which can promote the recovery of injured areas.
2. Oral anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications can effectively reduce local pain and inflammation.
3. Oral traditional Chinese medicines that promote blood circulation, relieve pain, and relax the tendons can effectively improve circulation, promote arterial blood flow, and increase venous blood return, which can aid in the recovery of the injured area.
1. Foot Injury Stretching Technique: The injured person can sit or lie down, and a caregiver (doctor or family member) can hold the injured ankle with one hand and the toes with the other. Gently stretch the injured foot, followed by extending and bending the foot towards the dorsum and plantar surface, as well as rotating the foot inward and outward. The caregiver should also gently stroke the tendons while avoiding excessive pressure on the injured area.
2. Herbal Fumigation Method: Prepare a decoction using 1000 grams of fresh gougu (a common Chinese herbal medicine also known as cat's claw or six-angle tea, which has the properties of promoting blood circulation, relaxing tendons, dispelling wind, and relieving pain). Boil the herbs in 5000 milliliters of water for 30 to 60 minutes after the water boils. Then pour the decoction into a cylindrical wooden bucket (or other container suitable for soaking the injured foot) and let it cool to a temperature comfortable for the skin.
3. Herbal External Application Method: Prepare a powder mixture consisting of桃仁 (Tao Ren), 乳香 (Ru Xiang), 没药 (Mo Yao), 白芷 (Bai Zhi), 红花 (Hong Hua), 血竭 (Xue Jie), and 大黄 (Da Huang) in specific proportions. Mix the powder with a small amount of flour and warm water to form a paste, and apply it directly to the injured ankle. Change the dressing every two days. After six days of continuous use, swelling and pain should be significantly reduced. Continue the treatment for another six days, and the swelling and pain should completely disappear, with the function of the injured ankle returning to normal.
In addition, it is important to allow the injured foot to rest and relax fully, avoiding further activity, which may exacerbate the injury. It is also crucial to keep the foot warm and avoid exposure to cold, as cold temperatures can cause muscle and surrounding tissues to tighten, reducing blood circulation and increasing the risk of blood stasis. Cold exposure can also lead to insufficient supply of energy, nutrients, and electrolytes to the injured area, resulting in slower healing.