Stages of a Sprained Ankle
It is important to properly treat and heal a sprained ankle to avoid serious or long-term problems. Regardless of how the ankle was injured, the course of treatment and rehabilitation principles apply in most cases.
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PRICE
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PRICE is the treatment followed in a sprained ankle rehabilitation program: Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
First Course of Treatment
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Removing the plastic cast and moving the ankle as tolerated will help in the healing process. Pumping the ankle back and forth will reduce swelling and speed recovery.
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Days 3 to 14
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In days three to 14 following a sprained ankle, you should attempt limited walking with a walking cast and crutches. Continue to ice the ankle to reduce any swelling and pump the ankle to increase mobility.
After Two Weeks
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After two weeks, active exercise and therapy is introduced. Resistance bands provide great physical therapy exercises and help strengthen, improve flexibility, and expand movement of the ankle.
Week Four
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Taping the ankle or wearing an ankle brace can help reduce re-injury. Mild jogging should begin and resistance band exercises should continue.
Week 5 and Beyond
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By week five, if you can tolerate jogging and resistance exercises without pain, normal activities can begin. A warm-up and cool-down regime of stretching and strength training should follow.
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