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Sprained ankle: first 48 hours

Protect, rest, ice, compress and raise it, and know when it needs an X-ray.

22 items · 5 sections · health, sports, fitness, first-aid

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Go to A&E or the ER if (5)

  • You heard a crack when it happened
  • The ankle has changed shape or points at an odd angle
  • It is numb or tingling, or you have pins and needles
  • Skin looks blue or grey, or feels cold
  • Do not drive yourself. Get a lift, or call 911 US, 999 UK, 112 or 108 India

Get seen today if (4)

  • You cannot put weight on it, or walk more than a few steps
  • Pain is severe or getting worse
  • Swelling or bruising is large or growing
  • It is very stiff, or you have a high temperature or feel shivery

First 48 hours (5)

  • Protect it with a support or supportive shoes
  • Stop the sport, and keep weight off it
  • Ice pack or frozen vegetables in a tea towel: up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hoursNever put ice straight on the skin.
  • Wrap a bandage round it during the day for supportTake it off to sleep. Loosen it if toes tingle or go pale.
  • Keep it raised on a pillow as much as you can

Avoid for now (4)

  • Heat: hot baths and heat packs
  • Alcohol
  • Massage
  • Testing it with a run or a game

After the first days (4)

  • Once pain allows, move it gently so that it does not stiffen
  • Getting worse, or no better with self-care? See a doctor
  • Most sprains feel better after 2 weeksSevere ones can take months.
  • Avoid running and other hard exercise for up to 8 weeks

Written from www.nhs.uk

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