Opening Day for the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field is set for Apr 6, 2018. 2:10 PM. Former NFL Quarterback for the Denver Broncos-turned-pro-baseball player Tim Tebow is playing with a taped ankle and taking it one day at a time since spraining his left ankle tripping over an outfield sprinkler head in March.
Even pro athletes can’t prevent some accidental injuries, though, like ankle sprains. You don’t have to be a pro athlete to know what to do when you sprain something, however. Everyone should know basic first aid to deal with those problems when they arise.
Ankle sprains happen suddenly and unpredictably. You trip, twist your foot, and end up overstretching the ligaments that support your joint. You’re left with a painful, swollen ankle that may or may not support you. Sprained ankles can develop complications that leave you struggling with joint instability and discomfort for years if the ligaments don’t heal correctly. That’s why first aid is so important—it immediately starts your ankle on the path to recovery and helps protect it from further injuries.
Initial first aid for sprains isn’t too difficult. The most effective way to take care of the joint is to follow RICE: rest, ice, compress, and elevate.
- Rest – Stop all hard-impact activities and minimize any walking or standing. This limits the pressure on the sensitive and vulnerable joint.
- Ice – Apply ice packs periodically to decrease the swelling and inflammation around the damaged ligaments.
- Compress – Wrap the ankle in an elastic compression bandage. This will discourage swelling and help keep the joint stable.
- Elevate – Prop the ankle up on pillows. This reduces some swelling and helps you rest the foot.
If the sprain is serious, first aid can tide you over until you’re able to get an evaluation. Podiatry Associates, P.C. will determine the extent of the problem and treat it so it heals properly. Then when your ankle has mostly recovered, you can begin physical therapy to rehabilitate it.
Don’t delay in getting additional help for a sprain, either. Contact the Podiatry Associates, P.C. offices in Cherry Creek, Aurora, Parker, or Castle Pines for an appointment. Call (303) 805-5156. We’ll help you begin your recovery right away.