How to Recover From a Foot Injury
It sometimes takes up to 6 weeks for a foot to recover from an injury. Put your feet up as often as you can and give your body time to heal.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Aspirins
- Cane
- Crutches
- Heating Pads
- Ibuprofen
- Ice Packs
- Ice packs
- Heating pads
-
-
1
Rest your foot. As much as you can, sit down and keep your foot elevated to chest level. Place a pillow under your heel to prevent pressure sores from developing.
-
2
Apply ice to the injured part of the foot - 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off - for the first 2 days.
-
3
Take lukewarm showers or baths for the first 3 days. Avoid getting water on your foot if you can.
-
4
Walk with assistance: an arm, a cane, a walker, or crutches.
-
5
Avoid massaging or scratching your foot. Unless advised by your doctor, it's better to keep your hands off your injured foot.
-
6
Apply warm compresses or a heating pad - 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off - after the first 2 to 3 days.
-
7
Check your temperature. A fever greater than 99.6 degrees F and lasting longer than 24 hours should be reported to your doctor.
-
8
Check the toenail bed of your injured foot for blanching. Your big toe is best, but do not use the big toe if it is injured. To blanch, press your thumb into the nailbed. It will look white when you first remove your finger, but should turn pink again in less than 6 seconds. If the nailbed is still white after 6 seconds, the circulation in your foot is compromised. Call your doctor.
-
9
Take aspirin or Ibuprofen for pain relief.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
It is important to use ice for the first 48-72 hours, because cold makes blood vessels constrict. Constricting vessels help decrease swelling and bruising.
Never put ice directly onto skin. Crushed ice works best.
Heat is beneficial after the initial swelling has gone away. It causes the blood vessels to dilate, and increases blood flow and lymph fluid to the injured foot, which facilitates healing.
To lessen the possible stomach side effects of Ibuprofen, take with food or milk.
Never take more than six Ibuprofen in 24 hours. Never take Ibuprofen if you are allergic to aspirin. Do not give Ibuprofen to children under 12 years old unless you have consulted your doctor.
Never take more than eight aspirin in 24 hours. Aspirin should not be given to children and teenagers unless okayed by your doctor.
If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
