How to recover quickly from a twisted and swollen ankle

Nov 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, patients are advised to rest, elevate the affected limb, undergo physical therapy, apply compression bandages, and receive medication under the guidance of a physician, which is conducive to disease recovery. If physical discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended for treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. In daily life, patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle and properly engage in rehabilitation therapy.

Generally, it is recommended that patients rest, elevate the affected limb, undergo physical therapy, apply compression bandages, and receive medication under a doctor's guidance, all of which are beneficial for recovery. If physical discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is advised for treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Rest: Swelling from a sprained ankle may indicate local soft tissue injury. Adequate rest is necessary to prevent further damage and to allow tissue repair. Weight-bearing activities on the affected limb should be avoided, and walking or standing time should be minimized. Depending on the severity of the sprain, rest for two to four weeks or even longer might be required.

2. Elevating the affected limb: Elevating the injured limb promotes venous return, which helps reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Immediately after spraining the ankle, the foot should be elevated using pillows or blankets to raise it above heart level. This should be done multiple times daily for sustained periods, and continued for at least one week.

3. Physical therapy: Cold compresses can constrict blood vessels, reduce bleeding and exudation, and thus relieve swelling and pain. Heat compresses, on the other hand, can improve blood circulation and aid in reducing inflammation. For a sprained and swollen ankle, cold compresses (using ice packs or cold damp towels) should be applied within the first 48 hours after injury. Heat compresses (using hot water bottles or infrared lamps) should be applied after the initial 48 hours to promote recovery.

4. Compression bandaging: Compression helps reduce bleeding and exudation, limits the extent of swelling, and promotes blood return. It is recommended to use elastic bandages for compression under medical supervision, maintaining appropriate pressure. Compression bandaging usually needs to be maintained for one to two weeks and should be performed by a healthcare professional to avoid impaired circulation due to excessive tightness.

5. Medication: Pharmacological treatment can help reduce inflammation and pain and promote recovery from sprains. Medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and blood-activating and pain-relieving capsules may be used under medical instructions to alleviate inflammation, pain, and swelling.

In conclusion, recovery from ankle swelling due to sprain should involve a comprehensive approach incorporating multiple treatment methods. Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle and perform appropriate rehabilitation therapy to prevent long-term complications.