Replied by Debbie (Punsutawney, PA) on 07/05/2009
I wonder if you have a blocked lymph vessel, or something like that. You might want to try gently massaging the hand in the direction of the heart a few times a day, and try keeping your hand/arm elevated when a rest...anything to encourage fluid to leave the hand. I would also keep using ice and keep doing range-of-motion exercises, but it sounds like you might want to cut down on the heat treatments. And make sure you are getting enough Vit C. Vit C is critical to the integrity of connective tissue and in a very good anti-imflammitory/anti-histamine.Replied by Isabel (Tampa, Fl USA) on 07/05/2009
MSM for pain on my hands, I have arthritis, my hands are really swollen, I had used different products and nothing works for me, epsom salts help me with the flexibility on my fingers, but still my hands are very stiff and I can't close it, I am using 3,000mg of MSM a day and is helping with my pain, I tried 5,000 but I had problems with my stomach, since September I had been taking ACV with baking soda, it helps with the pain on my knees, now I am seeing an accupunturist and it helps.Replied by Jitzky (Dallas, Tx) on 07/05/2009
My mom (75yrs old/asian) used to take prescription drug for her feet to bring down the swelling. But not anymore! She swears on lemongrass tea. She's been growing lemongrass in her backyard simply because she just loves plants and loves the smell of it, and also uses it for her cooking once in awhile. Then I told her all the other benefits & uses of lemongrass that I read in other sites and suggested to start drinking it as a tea since she has an abundance of it, that way it's not wasted. Wow, we were both amazed that the swelling went away completely within 24hrs and all the wrinkles on her little feet were back. (lol) It gets rid of water retention and the only draw back for the first few days of drinking it is that you are constantly having to pee. She used to drink about 4 cups a day and has now tapered it down to 1-2 cups a day or sometimes every other day for maintenance. Simply cut up 20 leaves about 2-3" long and boil in about 2 cups water for a few minutes. Add more lemon grass if you want it stronger. I also use it myself, twice a week I steam my face while I'm boiling it for my tea. The left over tea I put in the refrigerator and transfer some in a small spray bottle to spray my face during the day while I'm out. It's so soothing especially during this hot weather here in TX. My skin looks clear and lovely. Hope this helps and please give it a try.
