How to Heal an Ankle Sprain

Let's face it, injuries are going to happen! So let's talk about how to fix them when they do. Do you know what to do when you sprain your ankle?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ice
• ACE Bandage
• Something to prop foot on
• Possibly crutches

1. 
   Most common way people get sprained ankles

   Most ankle sprains are caused by rolling the foot. Adults that are not real active during the week are more prone have this happen when they become active on the weekends. So for all of us in this category.....
   Step 1 - Protect the area of the sprain. Use an ACE bandage, brace or perhaps crutches to ensure that is doesn't become further injured.

2. Step 2 - You absolutely have to rest the ankle. This means you have to stay off of it. As long as you can visibly see any swelling or you have a great amount of pain when applying pressure when standing, you should not try to use your foot. This may mean missing a few days of work. Hey! Lay back and take it easy. That's what sick days are for!

3. Step 3 - Ice it! As soon as you get positioned resting you should apply ice to the affected area. The sooner you get the ice on it, the less swelling you should have. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a thin cloth or wrap your ankle with the ACE bandage before applying.

4. Step 4 - Keep the foot elevated as much as you can. This will help, along with the ice to reduce the swelling.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't wrap your foot too tight, this will cut off your circulation
• Leaving an ice pack on exposed skin for an extended period of time can lead to frost bite.
• Don't rest the ankle for too long, it will become weak.

[christmaszorro2]

on 11/18/2009 5*

[mvparcels]

on 6/5/2009 Informative article. If your foot turns purple, uh...it's time to see a doctor. Personal experience with my husband.

[dorigillman]

on 6/5/2009 this is good information. i did that when i had a sprain.