Foot Care Library | Ankle | BunionBusters.com

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Ankle Sprains


	Pain Control For a mild to moderate sprain, a few days of home care will help speed up healing. The RICE principle (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) will help reduce pain and swelling.



	Rest the sprained ankle



	Do not stand on it for one or two days



	Ice the sprain often. Apply ice for 20 minutes then remove the cold pack for 20 minutes.



	Repeat this process. Protect the skin by placing a bandage or thin towel between the ice and skin.



	Compression can be applied by wrapping the ankle with an elastic bandage.



	Elevate the sprained ankle above the level of your heart.



	If the damage or pain is severe, your doctor may tape, splint, or cast the sprain. Once the ankle is immobilized, the torn tissues can rest and heal in the proper position. You may need to use crutches temporarily if your foot cannot support weight.




	What is an Ankle Sprain? An ankle sprain is a sudden sideways motion, a twist, or a misstep. When your foot lands off-balance, muscles may give way, allowing the ankle joint to move too far. If ligaments connecting the foot and ankle bones overstretch or tear, a sprain is the result. These sudden injuries are painful, both at the time they occur, and throughout the healing process. Depending on the sprain, swelling and bruising may extend from your ankle into your foot. With proper care, however, sprains can heal correctly, and in many cases, you can reduce the risk of re-injury.


	Treating Ankle Sprains The physician will examine your ankle and foot feeling for damaged ligaments, inflamed tendons, and any displaced bones or joints. Ankle x-rays may be taken to rule out a fracture. Depending on the injury, treatment may range from pain control to immobilization of the joint. If the sprain is severe, ore if a bone is damaged, surgery may be needed.


	Surgery In some cases, a sprain may completely tear a ligament, or pull it away from the bone. This type of injury may require surgery. After surgery, your foot will be placed in a cast to insure proper healing.

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