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Step 1
Rest the injured ankle--in fact, stay off the leg as much as possible.
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Step 2
Ice the injury immediately, applying an ice pack for 20 minutes every hour until the swelling subsides.
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Step 3
Compress the injured area with an elastic bandage to reduce swelling and immobilize the ankle. Wrap from the foot toward the knee, and be careful not to wrap so tightly that you cut off circulation.
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Step 4
Elevate the leg above your heart.
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Step 5
Use moist heat once swelling in the area has subsided.
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Step 6
Begin using the ankle again gradually as pain decreases.



Comments
DrNancyMalik said
on 8/3/2008 Ankle sprain – acute: Arn, Rhus-t, Ruta
Ankle sprain – chronic weakness: Stront-carb
DiscountTickets said
on 3/31/2008 What a great idea, to place this information as an article on ehow. Thanks
RFerriANP said
on 3/31/2008 Great video!!! Medically I would suggest that there always be a barrier between ice application and the skin to prevent "freezer burning" of the skin.
dawnzlight said
on 11/6/2007 Great article. RICE is key and when the swelling is reduced, go see a Neuromuscular massage therapist. Don't forget to use some epsom salt and soak that foot!
Gringa74 said
on 9/6/2007 I'm so familiar with sprained ankle. It take turns on my feet, and usually happens every two years..lol
But the best for me is just ice and elevate the leg with a pillow under the foot. In less than half of a day I might be walking almost normal.