I Sprained My Ankle, How Should I Treat This?

An easy home treatment and a great way to remember this treatment is “RICE”.

( R )est: If the pain is continual, rest is an important way to prevent further injury- DO NOT “work out the injury”

( I )ce: For a 20-minute cycle apply a towel- wrapped ice pack to the sprain (this is a cycle of 20 minute on and 20 minutes off). This cycle is used to reduce the swelling.

( C )ompression: To help restrict the swelling wrap an elastic bandage tightly around the injury. This should be re-wrapped every 3-4 hours to make sure compression is firm.

( E )levation: Elevate the foot and ankle to be even with your heart. Elevate the foot or ankle with a pillow. This aids fluid away from the injury. Make sure to see a podiatrist as soon as possible after the injury to make sure the sprain isn’t more severe!