“Should I heat or ice my ankle?”
I have ankle pain. Should I heat or ice my ankle?
9 Answers
Ice
For acute ankle injuries, especially those accompanied by inflammation, swelling, or recent trauma, it is generally recommended to use ice (cold therapy) during the initial stages. Ice helps constrict blood vessels, reduce swelling, and numb the area, providing pain relief. Applying an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth to the affected ankle for about 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48 hours after an injury can be beneficial.
But if you are dealing with chronic ankle pain, stiffness, or muscle tightness, heat therapy may be more appropriate. Heat increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, and helps alleviate stiffness. You can use a hot water bottle, warm towel, or heating pad on the affected ankle for 15-20 minutes at a time.
Remember that these are general guidelines, and individual responses to heat and cold therapy can vary. It's always a good idea to consult with a Foot & Ankle Specialist/Podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, especially if the pain persists or worsens. Additionally, if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, your healthcare provider can offer guidance on the most appropriate approach for your situation.
Best, Dr Haupt
www.newportfoot.com
But if you are dealing with chronic ankle pain, stiffness, or muscle tightness, heat therapy may be more appropriate. Heat increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, and helps alleviate stiffness. You can use a hot water bottle, warm towel, or heating pad on the affected ankle for 15-20 minutes at a time.
Remember that these are general guidelines, and individual responses to heat and cold therapy can vary. It's always a good idea to consult with a Foot & Ankle Specialist/Podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, especially if the pain persists or worsens. Additionally, if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, your healthcare provider can offer guidance on the most appropriate approach for your situation.
Best, Dr Haupt
www.newportfoot.com
If you just injured your ankle do RICE: Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.
Ankle pain should be warm compression
Typically after an acute injury you want to control pain and edema. Ice will help reduce swelling and that will give the ligaments relief. I prefer ice for the first 72 hours for a few minutes followed by elevation. Heat is not recommended by me.
Depends on the cause of the swelling. Need to consult a podiatrist or other doctor with interest in foot and ankle problemsKathleen neuhoff, DPM Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
There is almost no indication to ever heat an ankle.
Usually, ice works best, but alternating heat and ice can be effective. I recommend you make an appointment with a foot and ankle surgeon (podiatrist) for diagnosis and treatment options.
That is completely dependent on your pathology. Consult your physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
