There are simple ways to promote faster and more efficient healing after a sprained ankle.
Whether you twisted your ankle funny while stepping out of the car or you had a bad tackle during a game, there are many scenarios that can leave you nursing a sprained ankle. While we know this issue is never fun it is something that can easily be cared for. Our Windham and Scarborough, ME, podiatrist Dr. Peter Ocampo is here to offer simple tips for treating your sprained ankle and nursing it back to health.
First and foremost, it’s important to know precisely what the issue that you are dealing with is truly a sprained ankle. In some cases, it could actually be something much simpler like a strain or you could have actually fractured your ankle. This is why it’s always a good idea to visit our Windham and Scarborough, ME, foot doctor as soon as issues surface so that we can diagnose your injury.
If you are dealing with a true sprain, the first course of treatment is usually pretty simple and non-invasive. In most cases, you’ve probably heard of RICE, which stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. This is typically the best method to manage your symptoms in the very beginning to help ease pain and discomfort and speed up your recovery.
Rest
True rest is key to faster healing. If you continue to put weight on the affected ankle or participate in certain physical activities you could end up making the problem worse. Avoid putting weight on the ankle whenever possible. If the sprain is extensive enough we may even recommend using crutches or wearing a brace to provide support and protection while moving around.
Ice
Icing the injured area is one surefire way to reduce both swelling and pain. For at least the first two days after your injury, it’s a good idea to ice the ankle a couple times a day for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Remember to always wrap ice in a towel before applying to the skin to prevent burns.
Compression
Sometimes wearing compression braces or other supportive footwear can help reduce swelling and keep it down for the first couple of days after your injury. If you are unsure whether your ankle could benefit from compression don’t hesitate to ask us.
Elevation
Since you should be off your feet and sitting down the least you can do is prop your feet up. While it’s certainly a relaxing option it’s actually beneficial to your injury, as it helps reduce swelling and bruising. Elevate your feet for at least a couple of hours during the day.
Whether you are dealing with sudden ankle pain or you want other ways to tackle your sprained ankle symptoms, we are here to provide you with the care your feet need whenever they need it. Southern Maine Foot & Ankle is proud to serve the Scarborough and Windham, MA, areas. Call us today!