Simple steps to Treat a Sprained Ankle

Ankle sprains are the most common injury one can get at any time of the year. For that matter even your kids can get it playing all sorts of sporting activities. They can be quiet painful and keep you off your feet for a few days.

Here’s what you should do initially when you doubt a sprain:

Check for swelling

If there is any swelling do not hesitate to visit the doctor and do not apply any sort of pressure to the area unless you confirm there are no broken bones.

Movement

Check the movement of the feet. Ask the victim to rotate his feet and even wiggle his toes. If anything is broken or fractured movement will not be possible.

Provide support

• If there is any swelling, apply a cold compress by holding a bag of ice against the swollen area.
• After applying the cold compress do elevate the feet to prevent further swelling.
• Compression should be put on the wound in the form of a bandage, tape or even special elastic bandages.
• Make sure that the bandage gives the desired support without becoming too tight that it cuts off the circulation.

Soak

A sprain lasts for more than a couple of days. To soothe the sore and strained muscles soak your feet in a tub full of Epson salts 2-3 times a day.

Mild massage

You can lightly massage soothing oils that remove the pain and inflammation such as olive oil and arnica oil and then wrap the area with a warm bandage. Do this for a few days till the sprain disappears completely.

All wounds heal over time. But remember to never be physically active on ones feet with a sprain on ones ankle till it heals and don’t hesitate to head to the doctor’s clinic if you feel the injury getting worse instead of better.

Written by: Rasha Ashraf