Ankle sprains can be extremely painful and immobilizing, and they should be treated by a podiatrist as soon as possible. Prompt treatment and the correct at-home care will ensure a speedy recovery without inconvenient complications. Here's what you can do to help yourself recover from this injury.

Do:

Apply hot and cold compresses.

Alternating hot and cold therapy controls swelling, reduces pain, and stimulates healing. A cold compress constricts blood vessels and prevents the area from becoming swollen. Apply one as soon as possible after the injury, and leave the compress on for 20 minutes. 

After, replace it with a heat pack to dilate the vessels and increase nutrient and oxygen flow that stimulates healing. Apply the heat for 20 minutes, and repeat the cycle four to eight times per day.

Schedule a follow-up appointment.

Have a podiatrist examine the ankle promptly after the injury to ensure it doesn't need surgery. Then, schedule a follow-up visit for 3 to 4 weeks later so that the doctor can check if it's healing properly. If it is not, the doctor can provide any necessary medical procedures that can provide a full recovery with proper rehabilitation.

Don't:

Overexert yourself.

Stay off your foot as much as possible for the first few days. Get plenty of rest, and avoid putting weight on the leg. After that, crutches or a walker will help you remain mobile while bearing much of the weight. Keep the ankle elevated over your heart for an hour or two per day.

Rest too much.

Once the swelling has subsided—normally about a week or so after the injury—start putting more weight on the ankle. It may be painful, but you have to stretch the muscles and ligaments to regain strength and range of motion. Take ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin as necessary to help you manage the discomfort and get back on your feet.

If you have an ankle sprain, contact Extremity Health Centers Foot & Ankle in Scottsdale, AZ. This clinic has served patients throughout the state since 1970. They'll carefully examine your injury and offer compassionate care and reliable pain management to facilitate a speedy recovery. Call (480) 994-5977 to make an appointment with a podiatrist, or visit their website to learn about how they treat ankle sprains. Check out Dr. Jacoby's Youtube channel for more information on foot care.