How to Heal Foot Ligaments
Ligaments on the soles of the foot bear a lot of weight on them. An undue amount of stress placed on these valuable ligaments can result in their tearing. Two sets of ligaments, placed at different angles in the foot region, are collateral ligaments and cruciate ligaments. A tear of any of these two ligament sets is referred to as a sprain and is manifested with symptoms of pain, the intensity of which is dependent on the amount of tear (total or partial tear). Ligament tears usually result from a blow from outside that is directed towards the knee or by the sudden jerk of an action performed by an individual.
Things You'll Need
- Ice
- Zip-lok bag (1 gallon size)
- Cushion
- Towel or cotton cloth
- Chair or stool
- Hot water bag
- OTC Medication
Instructions
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1
Place a cushion over an elevated and stable chair or stool.
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Place the affected foot on the chair or stool, making sure that the foot is above the level of the heart. The foot should be placed in a straight position, not tilting towards the right or left.
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3
Put ice in a Zip-lok baggie, making sure to press all the air out before sealing. Put a towel or cloth over the injury site before applying the cold compress. The area should be numb within 20-30 minutes. An ice pack reduces the swelling and pain of the affected foot. Remove ice pack.
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4
Dress the affected foot with an ACE bandage. The dressing starts from the sole of the foot and ends in the lower region of the leg. This dressing offers support to the foot.
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Apply the hot water bag to the foot. Application of hot entity to the foot will ease the contracted muscles.
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An over-the-counter medication may be helpful in pain management. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Advil) or Naproxen (Aleve) have all been shown to relieve swelling and inflammation.
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Tips & Warnings
Rest is recommended for a sprained foot for about 2 weeks; while walking, a support for the affected foot, such as a cane, may be useful. Even after 2 weeks the patient should not perform activities of higher intensity.
If pain is persistent or swelling does not resolve within a week, consult your physician.
