What should I do if I sprain my ankle?

After spraining your foot, initial self-care is important. Here are the steps: 1. Rest: Avoid continued activity and reduce pressure on the injured area. If possible, elevate the injured foot to help reduce swelling. 2. Cold compress: During the first 24 to 48 hours, apply an ice pack for 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours to alleviate pain and swelling. Remember to place a cloth between the skin and the ice pack to prevent frostbite. 3. Compression: Wrap the injured ankle gently with an elastic bandage, but not too tightly, to avoid impairing blood circulation. 4. Pain relief: If the pain is severe, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen can be considered to relieve pain and reduce swelling, but follow the instructions on the label. 5. Observation: Watch for increasing bruising, worsening swelling, or inability to bear weight. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, seek medical attention promptly. 6. Rehabilitation exercises: Once the pain has subsided, appropriate joint movement and muscle strengthening exercises can be performed to prevent stiffness and restore function. The above recommendations are applicable only for mild sprains. Severe sprains may involve ligament tears and require immediate medical consultation.