How to Bandage a Sprained Ankle
A missed step, or a tripped stair can cause an ankle to turn the wrong way, and results in swelling and pain. It's not broken, but it's bruised and swollen and it hurts. While keeping it elevated and at rest is the preferred treatment, supporting it when you move is essential to keep it from further injury.
Wrapping it in a compression bandage will offer the appropriate level of support.
Things You'll Need
- A compression bandage (such as an ACE bandage)
- Moleskin or foam pieces cut in a "U" shape
Instructions
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How to wrap a sprained ankle
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1
Cut the moleskin or foam into U-shaped pieces and have them ready so that they can be applied to the ankle when needed. The foam will give an extra layer of cushioning and support around the ankle.
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2
Remove the shoe and sock from the affected foot and make sure the skin is dry. Although it's likely that your foot will sweat after the compression bandage is applied, beginning with a dry surface will keep the skin in better shape. Make sure to dry the skin every time you re-wrap the bandage.
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3
Remove the compression bandage from its container, be sure to leave it rolled. A rolled bandage is more easily applied because you can pull it more tautly as you go along. Check to make sure your compression bandage has either a velcro fastener or clips that will allow you to fasten the bandage once it is applied.
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4
Put your foot at a 90 degree angle. Place the unrolled end of the bandage on the bottom of the foot, on the arch and wrap it around the foot two full times. Always begin rolling the bandage below the injury and work your way upward.
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5
At the third wrap, stretch the bandage across the front of the foot and over the ankle, around the back of the foot and cross over the foot again and under the arch, making a figure eight around the heel, which should remain exposed. When you reach the ankle, place the foam cutouts, if you have them, and wrap over them, securing them in place.
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6
Repeat the process several more times, each time wrapping the bandage about half an inch higher. The bandage on your foot should move towards your heel, while the portion of the bandage on your leg should move upwards towards your calf.
Once you've come to the end of the roll, use the velcro grip to secure it in place. If your bandage doesn't come with a velcro grip, use a safety pin to secure it.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Pull the bandage so that it is taut but not tight.
Even wrapped it's important to keep off the foot and keep it elevated to help reduce swelling.
Only a doctor can diagnose a sprain so make sure to see a physician and get an x-ray to make sure that your ankle does not have any sort of fracture.
If your foot feels tingly or numb, immediately unwrap the bandage as it is probably too tight.
