How to Relieve Sprained Ankle Pain
According to www.umm.edu, a sprained ankle is the result of an injury that is often sustained from sports, physical activity or exercise. Sprained ankles refer to injuries of the ankle ligaments. A ligament is connective tissue linking bones and joints. Sprained ankle symptoms include pain at time of the injury, bruising and swelling. Ankle sprains occur when the joint is suddenly and forcefully twisted, which causes the ligament to become stretched beyond its normal limit. You need to seek treatment for your sprained ankle because failure to do so may result in significant disability. There are steps you can take to relieve sprained ankle pain.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor's appointment
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Prescription analgesics
- Ice pack
- Ace wrap
Instructions
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See your doctor. Your doctor will need to determine the extent of your sprain and may recommend further testing such as x-rays to determine if your ankle is broken. If your ankle swelling is excessive, x-ray quality may be hindered, so you may require additional views after the swelling subsides.
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Take anti-inflammatory medication. Over the counter anti-inflammatory medication is effective in relieving pain and inflammation of a sprained ankle. Never take an anti-inflammatory medication if you are taking medications to thin your blood, as they may intensify the effects of your blood thinners. Ask your doctor if anti-inflammatory medication is appropriate for your condition.
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Ask about prescription medication. If you cannot tolerate anti-inflammatory medication, or if your pain is severe, your doctor may recommend prescription analgesic medication. Since prescription pain relievers often contain codeine, never drive while taking them because they may cause extreme drowsiness and impair cognition.
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Apply ice. Applying ice to your sprained ankle may be effective in relieving swelling as well as pain. Apply ice to your ankle for 15 minutes, four times per day. Never apply ice directly to your skin, as this may cause tissue injury. According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, ice may reduce pain, inflammation and bleeding. Ice therapy should be maintained for the first few days after the injury.
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Try a compression bandage. Wrap your ankle with a compression bandage to give your ankle support, decrease swelling and increase circulation. The increase in circulation that the bandage will provide will help with the healing process and relieve sprained ankle pain.
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Tips & Warnings
If you do not have an ice pack or ice bag, an effective alternative is a package of frozen vegetables. The frozen vegetables will conform to your ankle and evenly provide cold to your injury.
If your sprained ankle is accompanied by severe pain, increased swelling or if you are unable to move it, notify your doctor. You may have an undiagnosed broken bone that will need medical evaluation and treatment.
