What to do if the leg
is sprained
Feet are one of the most used parts of our body. We use our
heels to stand, run, walk and climb. Ankles are used so much that sprains are
not uncommon. Also, ankle sprains can occur while getting down from a
rickshaw/bus accidentally, falling into a pothole, playing sports or not
stepping on the stairs properly. This can happen even if there is a problem
with the shoes. Especially those who have a habit of wearing high heeled shoes
are more prone to sprained feet. In minor sprains, some fibers of the ligament
are stretched, while in severe sprains, the ligament may be torn. Mild sprains
can heal with home treatment, but if the condition worsens, medical attention
should be sought. Even surgery may be required. If you suspect an ankle sprain,
you can get an X-ray done at the hospital to be sure. An ankle sprain will
cause pain and swelling in and around the joint. Later it can be sore.
Remember, weight bearing on the foot may be impossible when the ankle is
severely sprained. Here is the first treatment for sprained ankle.
what to do Must rest
Rest is most needed if the feet are swollen and in severe
pain. Even if the pain subsides, walking without taking rest will keep the
swelling of the ankle. So take at least two to three days rest during this
time. Lately no more than 7 to 10 days rest is given. Instead, they are asked
to start walking with support soon.
How to give ice?
Ice is the most beneficial to reduce swelling of the feet.
Do not give ice directly, wrap ice in a clean cloth and bake with it. Apply an
ice pack for 10 to 20 minutes every one to two hours for the first 48 to 72
hours after the injury or until the swelling goes down. It will reduce swelling
to a great extent.
Crepe or brace
Just as an ice pack will help reduce ankle swelling, a
crampon or brace will help relieve pain. Be sure to wear a brace for the first
24 to 36 hours after the injury. It will control the pain. But don't
over-tighten the brace.
Keep your legs up
The more the leg is lowered or hung down, the more the
swelling will increase. So keep your feet elevated for at least two to three
hours a day. Keep your feet higher than heart level while sleeping. It will
reduce swelling very quickly.
Be careful with blood flow: Don't be too tight if you want
something to control the swelling of the injured ankle. Tying cotton rolls or
compression bandages too tightly can restrict blood flow. Squeeze a toenail
until it turns white. Then let go. If the nail quickly returns to its previous
color, the bandage barrier is correct. If it's too late to return to the
previous color, it's too tight. If this happens, remove the bandage and
re-apply it. Check every 10 minutes.
Re-chill: After a sprained ankle, a cold chit is not the end
of the job. After that cold baking is required every 2-3 hours. At this time,
the bandage should be baked. Remove the bandage at night and do not sleep with
an ice pack on the ankle.
Warning
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