I wanted to document the things I've either tried or felt contributed to my recovery. Some of these things may help those who are looking for alternate ways to get rid of stubborn swelling.
Acupuncture - I had five sessions and all the external swelling (not muscle swelling) was soft and pliable. There was nothing that felt like a full balloon.
Lymphatic massage - thanks loads to
@JusticeRider for mentioning this. I had never heard of it. It's a type of massage that helps reduce swelling using a special massage technique. I've now had two sessions and the muscle swelling is slowly receding. My massage artist works my quad above my knee as well as the swelling to get things to loosen up.
Silicone strips - these heal scars and I've been amazed at how well they work. After one week my scar is now a thin white line with puckers where there is scar tissue. I also use it to make it more comfortable when something touches my scar. It's still pretty tender.
Voltarin - this is a cream for arthritis pain and inflammation. You can get it over the counter. I found it didn't do a whole lot for me.
Magnesium - this helped me with spasms at night. It eventually stopped working but by the time that happened my spasms were pretty much gone.
People have already discussed ice machines, the strap to hoist your log of a leg until your quads are strong, ibuprofen and acetaminophen for pain (although I have reactions to both - muscle weakness or nausea), stationary bike or peddler (invaluable!), and the importance of getting enough protein.
Good luck to all of you who are just trying to heal when your body is stubborn.
United Kingdom
