A sprained ankle is an ankle injury that is quite common and it can cause a lot of discomfort. It is very important that this injury is treated early and properly. This write-up about treating a sprained ankle will show you how to quickly recover from the injury.
A sprain occurs when a ligament is injured because of a sudden twist of the foot. An ankle sprain commonly occurs in runners or athletes and it is actually a soft tissue wound. It occurs when an individual's ankle is turned over because of an uneven surface or an awkward step which makes the sole to face inwards, resulting to tearing and stretching of ligaments around the ankle.
The indications of an ankle sprain depend basically on how severe the condition is. You may observe bruising and swelling around the part a day after the injury is sustained. You may not be able to walk with the affected leg because of the swelling within the ankle. Because the ligaments have been torn, there may be a slight ankle pain which may get worse any time you attempt to move affected ankle. However, if the sprained ankle is treated early, the discomfort and inflammation will reduce and that will help you to recover quickly.
Treating a Sprained Ankle
Medication
To lessen the swelling and ankle pain, you can take painkillers which can easily be purchased over-the-counter. Anti-inflammatory pain drugs such as Motrin, Advil, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Acetaminophen etc. are highly effective in lessening inflammation and pain. Your healthcare professional may apply a cast on the injured foot to prevent movement of the ankle.
Therapy That Can Be Done At Home
One very common method used for treating a sprained ankle at home is RICE which stands for rest, ice, compression plus elevation. You should get full rest and do not sprain the ankle. You can reduce the swelling by applying ice pack for fifteen to twenty minutes many times during the day. Get an ice bandage and wrap it around the injured ankle and let it get to the region of the calf muscles. This will help to decrease the swelling and pain you feel at the ankle. If possible the affected foot should be placed at a raised level. You can achieve this by placing your foot at a platform that has been elevated or placing a few pillows beneath the injured ankle while you lie down. This will also help to decrease the inflammation.
Massage
Massaging the sprained ankle has the effect of stopping scar tissues from forming and it also breaks down any scar tissues that have developed. Rubbing tenderly over the affected ankle towards the edge of your foot and making circular motions with your thumb over the affected part, enhances flow of blood and this can make you get better quickly.
The recovery time for a sprained ankle that is receiving treatment depends primarily on the therapy provided as well as the way the patient responds to the therapy. However, it usually takes about two to three weeks before a patient can overcome the swelling and pain caused by the sprained ankle. However, if you notice no relief while treating a sprained ankle, it is best that you consult an orthopedist who will give you more details regarding your condition.
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