I recently sprained my ankle, and i get waves of pain down my foot and ankle. should i use crutches?

Ankle sprain : You can always use crutches if you feel safe and unsteady on your feet. Typically crutches aren't needed after a typical ankle sprain. Only an over the counter brace should be needed. If you can NOT bear weight on your ankle you should have xrays because you may have a fracture.

Probably: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation for initial treatment is warranted. Use crutches if the pain increases or the ankle feels unstable. Have the ankle evaluated for a ligament tear.

Ankle Sprain: Ankle sprains are very common injuries. There's a good chance that while playing as a child or stepping on an uneven surface as an adult you sprained your ankle--some 25,000 people do it every day.​