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A member asked:
Do you think i should apply ice or heat to a sprained ankle?
3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
RICE when acute: If you just sprained your ankle, follow the rice protocol - rest, ice, compression and elevate. Also follow-up with a foot/ankle specialist to have the injury examined. Even if you can walk on it, it won't hurt to have it checked properly.
Answered 9/28/2016
5k views
Ice and more ice: Try resting it (for 1-2 weeks), icing, compressing wraps or bracing, and elevating your rolled ankle. Take otc antiinflammatory drugs like advil (ibuprofen) or Motrin as directed by the manufacturer to help. Heat increases swelling and makes the healing process worse. Although the skin feels good, it doesn't help the sprained ankle.
Answered 6/30/2014
5k views
Related Questions
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I have an ankle sprain, why shouldn't heat be used? My foot is freezing and want to warm it up but wasn't sure why heat packs can't be used?
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I hurt my ankle in gym class (think i sprained it) 4 days ago. When should I see the doctor? I've been icing and heating it and when i walk without a brace I've been rolling the same ankle, i feel like its very weak. Also the brusing has gone down but the
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I have a sprained on my right foot toes only, believe from slipping accidentally.I am using heat pack & icy hot. Is their any recommendation/ concerns?
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I sprained my ankle yesterday and i've been applying ice and taking pain killers but its not really helping.
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