How to Heal a Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle can be quite painful, as well as prevent you from getting where you need to go. You can heal more quickly with proper care

Step 1: Take anti-inflammatory medication Take anti-inflammatory medication as soon as possible after injuring your ankle. This will help reduce swelling.
TIP: Anti-inflammatory medication may need to be taken for several days after the injury.
Step 2: Ice your ankle Ice your ankle to further reduce swelling and inflammation. Place ice cubes in a sealable plastic bag and lay it over your ankle for 10 to 20 minutes per hour until the swelling goes down.
TIP: A bag of frozen peas or a commercial ice pack can be used instead of ice and may cover the affected injury more fully.
Step 3: Compress injury Compress the injured ankle with a protective brace or a compression bandage for the first 24 to 36 hours. Be careful not to wrap it too tightly and cut off blood circulation.
Step 4: Elevate your ankle Elevate your ankle for two to three hours each day, raising your ankle above your heart level while lying down. Elevation will decrease the swelling and bruising.
TIP: A good rule of thumb is to stay off of your ankle as much as possible until it has healed.
Step 5: Use crutches Use crutches when walking to decrease the pressure on the injury, accelerate healing, and prevent further injury.
Step 6: See a doctor See a doctor if pain and swelling persists, or if you believe you may have broken your ankle.
FACT: Ankle sprains usually result from people rolling their ankle inward and tearing the fibers of ankle ligaments.