Ankle sprain analysis

It has happened to most of us at one time or another. Maybe you were playing basketball or just walking down the street minding your own business. You take your next misplaced step and there you have it. You just twisted your ankle.\nOnce you have recovered from the unnecessary embarrassment that often accompanies such an act, you must deal with your injured ankle. What do you do next? If you are lucky and you are immediately able to "walk it off" you may be fine. Fortunately that is what happens most of the time. If you are not so lucky and think you might have done more significant damage, consider having it evaluated by a healthcare professional. \nWhat follows are four first aid/self care suggestions for ankle sprains that are minor and do not require the attention of a healthcare provider. They are referred to as R.I.C.E. -- Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.\nRest is essential for tissue recovery. Overusing your healing ankle can contribute to ongoing problems. For the first 2-3 days after the injury, ice can be applied to the ankle for 20 minutes every four hours. Fill a bag with ice and a little water and seal it. This will then form to the contour of the ankle. A bag of frozen vegetables works just as well. This is done to help with swelling and pain. To help reduce swelling the ankle can be wrapped with an elastic (ACE) bandage. Try not to wrap the bandage too tightly. Begin behind the toes using firm pressure. Lessen the pressure as you continue up and just over the ankle. If your toes go numb or turn blue, then the bandage is too tight. Finally, for the first 24-48 hours the ankle should be elevated as much as possible. Try to elevate the ankle above the level of the heart.\nPain can be improved by over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Medications in this category include ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen sodium, also know as Aleve. Certain individuals should not take this type of medicine so be certain to read the warning label on the package. Some people prefer to use acetaminophen (Tylenol).\nIf you feel your injury requires specific medical care see your healthcare professional. He or she may determine an x-ray is necessary to evaluate the bones in your ankle. They may examine your ankle to check for tendon or ligament injury. Also there are several different types of splints that can be used to help protect the ankle or limit movement to promote healing and reduce the chance of re-injury.\nSome people describe problems with "weak ankles" after repeated sprains or injury. One of the benefits to seeing a healthcare professional is that they can recommend specific strengthening and flexibility exercises or prescribe an "ankle rehabilitation program" through physical therapy.\nWith proper care a mildly or even severely injured ankle often results in a full recovery. Some people find that through the recommended exercises or rehabilitation their ankles are in fact stronger than they were previously.