It is important to properly treat and heal a sprained ankle to avoid serious or long-term problems. Regardless of how the ankle was injured, the course of treatment and rehabilitation principles apply in most cases.
PRICE
PRICE is the treatment followed in a sprained ankle rehabilitation program: Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
First Course of Treatment
Removing the plastic cast and moving the ankle as tolerated will help in the healing process. Pumping the ankle back and forth will reduce swelling and speed recovery.
Days 3 to 14
In days three to 14 following a sprained ankle, you should attempt limited walking with a walking cast and crutches. Continue to ice the ankle to reduce any swelling and pump the ankle to increase mobility.
After Two Weeks
After two weeks, active exercise and therapy is introduced. Resistance bands provide great physical therapy exercises and help strengthen, improve flexibility, and expand movement of the ankle.
Week Four
Taping the ankle or wearing an ankle brace can help reduce re-injury. Mild jogging should begin and resistance band exercises should continue.
Week 5 and Beyond
By week five, if you can tolerate jogging and resistance exercises without pain, normal activities can begin. A warm-up and cool-down regime of stretching and strength training should follow.
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