Sprains and Strains

Causes

When the foot makes a sudden twist or roll, forcing the ankle joint out of its natural position, an ankle sprain happens. The ligaments that surround and connect the bones of the leg to the foot can either tear or stretch from the rolling, unnatural movement. Though playing sports can cause such injuries, household accidents like stepping off a stair or getting up to fast from a chair and stumbling can also cause sprained ankles.

Symptoms

The following symptoms often occur when spraining an ankle:

• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Pain
• Not able to put weight on ankle
• Stiffness
• Skin discoloration

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the ankle sprain, you can provide ankle twist treatment at home. Mild sprains take a week to 10 days to heal. More severe ones take weeks. You can remedy a sprained ankle and provide pain relief at home by:

• Apply ice to the sprain immediately to reduce swelling for 20 to 30 minutes
• Using elastic ACE bandages to wrap the ankle
• Wearing a brace support
• Using crutches to keep your weight of the ankle
• Elevating your foot while resting or sleeping—helps reduce swelling
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) for swelling and pain
• Resting