Sprained an ankle playing sport? The first 48 hours

An ankle can be sprained playing football or cricket, or even walking on an uneven road. A sprain means the ankle ligaments are stretched or partly torn. Care in the first 48 hours makes a big difference to recovery.

The first 48 hours

• Rest: put as little weight on the injured foot as you can
• Ice: wrapped in a thin cloth, 15–20 minutes at a time, several times a day, never directly on the skin
• Compression: wrap a crepe bandage gently, not too tight
• Elevation: rest the foot up on a pillow when sitting or lying down

Avoid in the first few days

• Hot packs or hot water
• Massage or hard rubbing
• Going back to sport while it still hurts

There may be a fracture, and you need an X-ray, if

• You can't walk four steps after the injury
• Pressing on the ankle bone causes sharp pain
• The ankle looks bent or out of shape
• The foot feels numb or cold

When to see a doctor

• Swelling and pain haven't eased after a week
• The ankle keeps spraining or feels unstable
• The ankle feels like it gives way when you walk

Returning to sport

• Go back gradually once you can walk, run and jump without pain
• Balance and strengthening exercises for the ankle lower the risk of another sprain