How To Treat A Sprained Ankle

Compression And Elevation

Compression and elevation are the next steps in the typical at-home care method. Patients can remember this with the initials RICE for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. If the injury is very mild, individuals might not even need to use compression and elevation. However, if their pain is moderate to severe, or it persists for longer than a day, compression and elevation are excellent tools. Compression is a way of stopping swelling in the ankle. Patients can use a thin elastic bandage to stop the swelling. There are also compression stockings to help with swelling in the legs, some of which are long enough to assist with ankle swelling. Individuals should make sure they don't wrap any bandages too tightly, as this can hinder circulation. They should start the wrap at the furthest point from their heart. Elevation also reduces swelling. When sleeping at night, individuals should place their ankle on a pillow to elevate it above their heart. This encourages good circulation and fluid drainage.

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