Ankle Sprains

• Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries, often reoccurring again and again.
• A sprain is stretching and/or tearing of ligaments
• Sprains may vary from a mild sprain to very severe
• Sprains usually occur after a sudden trauma, twisting or rolling of the ankle
• Symptoms such as swelling and bruising may be present but not always

Treatment

• Immediate first aid is the RICE technique-  this aims to reduce the swelling

REST– Rest the injured leg. It is important to rest the injury to reduce pain and prevent further damage.

ICE– Apply an ice pack (or similar) immediately following injury for 15 minutes. Repeat this every 2 hours.

COMPRESSION– A bandage or ankle support which compresses the joint is effective at reducing the swelling.

ELEVATION– Keep the leg elevated. Use gravity to reduce bleeding and swelling by allowing fluids to flow away from the site of injury.

• After applying the RICE technique make an appointment with one of our experienced Podiatrists at Barefeet Podiatry.

What can Barefeet Podiatry do to help?

• Do a thorough assessment of the injury to ensure no time is wasted treating the wrong condition
• Ankle taping techniques to support the ankle during recovery
• Prescribe ankle sprain exercises to strengthen the joint and help prevent future ankle sprains.