Home Remedies for a Sprained Ankle

In the vast majority of cases, sprains are the result of a wrong movement. In the case of ankle sprains, these are usually caused by the foot being supported incorrectly. This means you exert too much pressure on the ankle ligaments and joints, which damages them.

Walking in high heels or practicing sport are some of the most common causes of sprains. Likewise, a sprained ankle can be caused by overexertion in this area due to prolonged exercise, which causes wear on the ligaments.

When you suffer from a sprained ankle, the most common symptoms are as follows:

• Ankle pain
• Swelling of the affected area
• Difficulty supporting the ankle
• If the ankle sprain was caused by a blow or fall you may also have a visible wound or bruise on the outside

• Ice: This is definitely one of the best remedies for ankle sprains, as it allows quickly reduces inflammation and pain in the area. It is as simple as wrapping ice in a cloth, using a bag of frozen peas or using a cold compress specifically on this area. Applying ice indirectly on the area where you suffered the sprain for 15 minutes will help to reduce inflammation. Read our article to learn how to use ice to reduce inflammation in more detail.

• Elastic bandage: Another way of acting when faced with a sprain is to get an elastic bandage and wrap the ankle so that less fluid accumulates in the affected area. You must not tighten the band too much, as it may cut off the bloodstream. Leave the bandage on for 24 hours to get relief.

• Hot compresses: A useful home remedy for ankle sprain consists of applying a hot compress to the affected area. This will stimulate the blood's circulation and thus improve the healing process. However, this remedy should not be used until 24 hours after the injury has occurred.

• Green clay: It contains minerals like iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium and silicon which help relieve inflammation and pain.

• Water with salt and vinegar: You can prepare a bath with hot water, salt and vinegar three days after the injury. This is a good way of helping to heal the sprain and reduce swelling.

• Cayenne pepper: The capsaicin in cayenne pepper is excellent for treating the pain caused by a sprained ankle. Applying a little of this spice will positively contribute to relieving pain thanks to its analgesic effect. However, do not abuse this home remedy, as it can irritate the skin.

It should be noted that the severity of an ankle sprain may vary, and some people feel less pain and recover faster than others. Generally, there are a number of tips that any person suffering from a sprained ankle should follow:

• Rest. As the injury is often located on the ankle, the person frequently tends to support the foot while walking. You must avoid forcing the foot to avoid causing yet more damage to the area. Rest the foot as much as you can.

• Use home remedies for ankle sprains. Apply remedies to control pain and inflammation during the first week.

• Go to the doctor if the pain is severe, the ankle is very swollen, or your symptoms last for more than a week without showing any signs of improvement.

• Have physiotherapy if the doctor deems it necessary.

• Warm up before and after exercise to prepare the muscles, tendons and ligaments and avoid injury.

• Ensure that you wear suitable sportswear, especially footwear. Your running shoes ought to support your ankles, and they never should be too loose.

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

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