First Aid for Ankle Sprains

At Anderson Foot and Ankle, we provide comprehensive care for foot and ankle injuries and medical conditions. If you need professional treatment, we’re here for you. Of course, there are times when you need to be ready to handle an issue on your own, at least until you’re able to come see us.

Sure, we’d love to be right onsite and ready to provide assistance when you’re hurt, but that’s impossible (also, it’d be a little weird if we were hanging around waiting for you to be injured!). This means it’s important to know how to provide first aid for common injuries.

Ankle sprains happen to be one of the most common injuries. Some people may think they are merely limited to athletic events or practices, but anyone who walks to get around is susceptible for these injuries. At the time of the injury, the following first aid procedure will keep a sprained ankle safe and assist with the healing process:

• Rest – This is a key component of first aid for sprained ankles, but too often—particularly in athletics—people are inclined to just “walk it off.” Instead of attempting to return to action, you need to give your body rest.
• Ice – Icing your sprained ankle will help to not only reduce swelling and inflammation in the area, but it can help decrease pain as well. When applying ice, be sure to wrap it in a thin towel in order to prevent damaging your skin.
• Compression – Much like ice, compression is a valuable first aid step that will help to reduce swelling. When you wrap up your ankle, be careful about doing it too tight. If you start to feel tingling followed by numbness, loosen the wrap a bit.
• Elevation – A great way to supplement the rest you are giving your injured ankle is to lay down and prop your foot up on some pillows. Keeping the affected joint above heart level will further help to decrease swelling in the area.

This first aid for a sprained ankle is colloquially known as RICE therapy. In addition to this process, always visit our office for an evaluation, especially because sprains and bone fractures have similar symptoms and causes. It is important not to go back to activities until the affected ankle has healed completely to decrease the risk of long-term instability in the joint.

For more information about first aid for foot or ankle problems, or to schedule your appointment after sustaining a lower limb injury, contact our Salt Lake City office by calling (801) 269-9939 or simply take a moment and fill out our online form right now!