How to Reduce a Dislocated Ankle

Dislocated ankles are usually easy to put back into alignment ("reduce"), but often also involve fractured bones. Reduction of the ankle will reduce pain and prevent further injury.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Splint

Preparation

1. Calm the injured person down, making the person as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

2. Determine quickly whether or not reducing the dislocation (putting the bones back in line) is necessary (see "How to Decide Whether or Not to Reduce a Dislocation").

3. If reduction of the dislocation is necessary, calmly walk the injured person through each step, securing the person's agreement and cooperation.

Reduction and Splinting

4. Seat the injured person comfortably, or have the injured person lie on his or her back.

5. Hold the foot of the injured ankle by the toes, letting the weight of the foot and leg act as a counterweight, pulling the ankle downward. This is usually enough tension to slide the ankle back into place.

6. If the free weight of the dangling foot is not enough tension, gently pull on the heel until the ankle slides back into place.

7. Splint the ankle and seek medical attention (see "How to Splint a Fractured Ankle"). The injured person may be able to walk if splinted well.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not force the ankle back into place. Stop immediately if pain increases or the ankle resists manipulation.
• Reducing dislocations is risky because vessels may be damaged when bones and joints are manipulated. Despite this risk, you should reduce dislocations in remote settings to prevent further injury to the joint and limbs.
• Enroll in a first-aid class or consult a trained medical professional before attempting this procedure.
• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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on 9/26/2006 Bend the knee a little to relax the muscles around the ankle.