ankle sprains

First aid for ankle sprains

Fact Checked

Overview of an ankle sprain

Spraining the ankle occurs when there is a split or stretch affecting the ligaments surrounding the ankle. Generally, ankle ligaments are flexible tissues, holding the bones in place. Ankles are inclined to get sprained because of the small dimensions of the joint and the pressure that is applied when running, walking and jumping, particularly if the surface isn’t smooth.

Symptoms of an ankle sprain"<yoastmark

Symptoms can consist of:

  • At first, ankle pain, soreness and inflammation.
  • Ankle bruising.
  • Difficult to move the ankle.
  • Lastly, unable to place pressure on the ankle.

Diagnosis

The GP will assess your ankle for:

  • Inflammation or malformation.
  • Unable to feel somebody touching the skin.
  • Blood circulation.
  • Areas of sensitivity.
  • Restraint in terms of motion.
  • Unable to place pressure on the ankle.

Prevention

To decrease your possibility of spraining an ankle:

  • Focus on the surface on which you are running, walking or jumping.
  • Do stretching workouts beforehand and after any physical activity.
  • Do balance workouts.
  • Wear shoes that fit properly and are suitable for your sport.
  • Avoid sharp, unexpected turns and variations in direction.
  • Lastly, reinforce foot and leg muscles by swimming, cycling or running.

If you have had numerous ankle sprains, you’ll need a decent recovery program that includes strengthening and balance workouts. In addition, you might need to wear a brace to guard your ankle as you recuperate.

Treatment 

Generally, the initial treatment for an ankle sprain is generally known as RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation):

  • Rest the ankle and avoid placing any pressure on it.
  • Place ice packs to the ankle for about 30 minutes every 3 hours.
  • Place compression to the sprained ankle with a flexible wrap/bandage.
  • Lastly, elevate the sprained ankle by raising and supporting the leg.

Related video

FACT CHECK

https://www.healthline.com/health/ankle-sprain

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/sprained-ankle/

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/ankle-sprain#1

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top
Call Now Button

The information posted on this page is for educational purposes only.
If you need medical advice or help with a diagnosis contact a medical professional

  • All Popup on Click content is reviewed by a medical professional and / sourced to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

  • We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable websites, academic research institutions and medical articles.

  • If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please contact us through our contact us page.