Sprained Ankle Treatment
A sprain occurs when a ligament (or several ligaments) are stretched excessively and suddenly, causing them to tear. Sprains usually affect the ankle, and may be caused by a fall, a twist, or even a blow to the ankle. The tear may be a minor one that does not require any treatment, or it may be very severe, resulting in complete inability to use the affected limb. Sprains are typically graded depending upon the extent of damage caused, and they are usually described in terms of “degrees”. A first degree sprain involves minor damage to the ligament, while a fifth degree sprain involves rupturing of all the ligaments in the area along with fracture of the bones. This kind of sprain does not usually heal, and the limb sometimes needs to be amputated. Fortunately, such injuries are quite rare.
Most sprains that require treatment fall somewhere between these two extremes. However, many of these sprains also require medical treatment – third degree sprains involve complete rupturing of the affected ligament. Along with a brace or cast, physical therapy and possibly even surgery might be needed to treat such a sprain. Since it is difficult to gauge the severity of a sprain on your own, it is better to get a sprained ankle examined by a doctor. Neglecting to do this might result in a permanently weak ankle, and repeated sprains from even minor mishaps.
Before you visit a doctor however, it is a good idea to begin treatment on your own. First of all, you need to get off your feet and avoid straining the ankle any further. Application of ice always helps, by reducing both the pain and the inflammation. Compression of the ankle also helps to reduce the swelling, and can be applied through an elastic bandage. However, if you are unsure about how to tie the bandage, avoid this part of the treatment, as you may cause more damage. Finally, keep your foot at a height above the rest of your body so as to prevent accumulation of blood in the feet, which causes further swelling. This treatment combination is usually known as RICE – rest, ice, compression, and elevation, and is an important part of sprain treatment.
Once your doctor evaluates your injury, he will prescribe the appropriate treatment for the ankle sprain. Along with a brace or cast, the doctor may also prescribe anti inflammatory or pain medication.
