Care And Treatment Of Ankle Sprains
In an ankle injury, the ligaments get damaged and there is bleeding in large amounts around the site of injury.
Here are some ways to treat an ankle sprain that follows the R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) methodology:
- Compression – Wrap around a compression bandage that is wide, firm and elastic, on the ankle and the lower leg. Not only will a compression reduce the inflammation and bleeding, it will also act as a sort of support for the ankle.
- Elevation – Keep raising the ankle above the level of your heart whenever possible. This will aid in reducing the swelling as well as the bleeding, if any.
- Take rest – It is essential that the sprained ankle is kept very still, as much as is possible. It slows down the flow of blood into the ankle preventing the damage further.
- Applying ice – It is advisable to apply ice at once after injuring the ankle. Applying ice soothes down the injury to a great extent. It will help the bleeding and the swelling to subside, and it will also help the pain subside.
Precautions to be taken in the first seventy-two hours after the injury:
- Make sure not to bring your injury in contact with heat, which include going for a spa, into a Jacuzzi or a sauna, coming in close contact with heat lamps and hot creams etc.
- Make no movements or massage the area around the injury.
- Avoid consumption of alcohol in excess
- These above mentioned activities are known to increase bleeding, swelling and more pain to your injury.
- If the injury is very serious, it is very essential to take the consultation of a professional physiotherapist to get an exact diagnosis. They will let you know about the best course of treatment and the extent of damage from your injury.
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