How to recover from a sprained ankle as quickly as possible
Dec 21, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
There is no such thing as "the fastest way to recover from a sprained foot." When a foot is sprained, treatment methods may include rest, ice application, compression bandaging, elevating the affected limb, and medication. It is important to maintain a positive mindset and actively cooperate with treatment to promote recovery. If there is severe pain, significant swelling, obvious deformity, or functional impairment after the sprain, timely medical consultation and treatment are necessary.
Generally speaking, there is no such thing as "how to recover from a sprained foot the fastest." A sprained foot can be treated by resting, applying ice, compressing with a bandage, elevating the affected limb, and using medications. The details are as follows:
1. Rest: Immediately after spraining your foot, stop all activity, avoid putting weight on the injured foot, and prevent further injury. Find a safe and comfortable place to sit or lie down, and keep your foot as relaxed as possible. If the injury occurs during exercise, ask a companion to assist you to a place where you can rest.
2. Ice Application: Within 72 hours after the sprain, apply an ice pack or wrap ice in a towel and place it on the injured ankle or foot. Each ice application should last 15-20 minutes, and should be done 3-4 times daily. This helps constrict blood vessels, reduce bleeding and swelling, and relieve pain.
3. Compression with a Bandage: Use an elastic bandage to wrap the injured foot, starting from the base of the toes and wrapping upward. Ensure the bandage is neither too tight nor too loose—ideally, you should be able to insert one finger under the bandage. Avoid wrapping too tightly to prevent interference with blood circulation. Proper compression can help reduce local bleeding and alleviate swelling.
4. Elevate the Affected Limb: Raise the injured foot above the level of the heart. When resting, place several pillows or blankets under the foot to maintain elevation. Elevating the limb helps promote blood and lymphatic fluid drainage, reducing accumulation at the injury site and thereby decreasing swelling.
5. Medication: Under a doctor's guidance, pain-relief medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or acetaminophen suppositories may be used. Additionally, topical medications such as pain-relieving plasters, muscle-relaxing plasters, or musk-plasters may be used as directed by a physician to promote blood circulation and resolve bruising.
Maintain a positive mindset and actively cooperate with treatment to promote recovery. If the pain is severe, swelling is significant, or there is obvious deformity and functional impairment after the sprain, seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
