A sprain is a torn or stretched ligament. Ligaments play a vital role in connecting one bone with another bone at the joint. Ankle sprains are mostly happen during daily activities and also in sports. If the foot is based awkwardly, then it affects by twisting the movements of ankle joint. It happens if the ground is not balanced or uneven, and when abnormal amount of physical energy is applied on the joint.
In usual movements, the ligaments may slightly stretch and then come back to their usual size and shape. An ankle sprain appears when ankle ligaments have been elongated beyond their level.
Treatment:
Initial treatment for ankle sprains includes RICE method. To treat the ankle sprains in a proper way you must have to consult your doctor before starting any rehab or treatment. Here is the overview of RICE procedure for the treatment of ankle sprains:
Rest: in the starting period of injury that is 24-48 hours followed by the injury is considered a crucial period for treatment and activities need to be abridged. Gradually put weight on the affected ankle as beard and avoid use of crutch when you can walk with a usual gait.
Ice: after 48 hour of the injury, keep ice pack and lift up the ankle sprains 20 minutes for every 3-4 hours. This ice pack can include frozen vegetables such as corn or peas, which are allowing you to re-use them. Another useful treatment procedure is to fill the paper cups with drinking water then freeze that cup. Use these frozen cubes by peeling away the paper. Kept the ice on ankle sprains for less than 20 minutes, if you kept for more than 20 minutes it may cause tissue damage.
Compression: Continue for compression procedure when lifting up the ankle sprain in initial treatment. Wrap the ankle by using an elastic bandage from the toes to the mild calf, by applying even pressure. The wrap should be comfortable. If the foot becomes blue, cold, or falls asleep, it indicates that the wrap is cutting off the circulation to your ankle and foot so re-wrap it.
Elevate: keep the ankle sprain at height. Lift up it at night by placing pillows, books, or using any material under your foot. Stand up carefully in the morning.
You can start exercises under physician guidance. Without applying any force on ankle, basic exercises should be performed. Some standard exercises such as range of motion exercise, isometric exercise, and resistance exercise can be useful for ankle sprains.
More severe injuries for ankle sprains, including total rips of the ligaments and bone fractures may need various rehab and treatments than simple sprain.
If you won’t get any relief from this RICE procedure, you can consult an orthopedic doctor to know about your condition and treatment.