Ankle Sprains
6 ways to treat your sprained ankle
With spring just around the corner, Direct Orthopedic Care (DOC) is seeing a variety of sporting injuries. One of the most common injuries that patients present with at our clinics is the ankle sprain. For active individuals, early treatment of a sprain is crucial for a speedy recovery. Here are 6 measures you should take when you have an ankle sprain.
1. Rest – As hard as it may be for some individuals, taking time to allow your ankle to recover can make all the difference. If this is not an option for you, crutches might be a good alternative; this way, you can still remain mobile while allowing your ankle the recovery time it needs. Depending on the severity of the sprain, you may be able to engage in low-impact exercises such as swimming or riding a stationary bike.
2. Ice – For the first two days after an injury, you should ice the joint several times a day for 15-to-20 minutes. Critically, you should not apply ice for more than 20 minutes at a time. Using ice will help to reduce swelling and control pain.
3. Compress – You can purchase a simple all cotton elastic (ACE) wrap at your local drugstore. When wrapping the joint, it is important to make sure it is comfortably snug but not tight. Using an ACE wrap to compress the joint will help reduce swelling and provide more range of motion.
4. Elevate – Reducing swelling is the most important factor when it comes to pain control. By elevating the joint, gravity will do the work to reduce swelling in the joint. When you lay back, put a few pillows under your ankle, and ensure your ankle is above your heart.
5. Immobilize – For severe sprains, you should immobilize the joint with a brace or splint. By keeping the joint stable you will prevent another injury to the joint. It is also important not to walk on the injured ankle joint.
6. See an orthopedist – When you injure your ankle, you can try the measures listed above at home. If you do not experience relief, consider scheduling an appointment with an orthopedist, or walk-in to DOC. A medical provider can assess the severity of the injury and determine if you damaged your tendons, cartilage, or nerves. Additionally, if necessary, they can prescribe the appropriate rehabilitation measures, provide bracing and crutches, or splint the ankle.