Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, Sports Medicine Questions Sports Injuries

Ice for a sprain?

My son sprained his ankle while playing basketball with his friends, and now that he's home I'm not sure about what I can do to help him soothe it. Is ice the best thing for a sprain?

1 Answer

Hi! Thanks for reaching out. Was the sprain diagnosed by a medical provider? If not, I would advise you to have the ankle evaluated in a clinic or urgent care to ensure that there is no further injury or fracture. Ice is one thing that can help a sprain. A common expression that is used for ankle sprains is R.I.C.E. Rest. Ice. Compression (w/ ACE wrap bandage). Elevation (sitting with ankle propped up often). During the first 2-3 days of the sprain this is the best option for the sprain to assist with the initial pain, swelling, and inflammation. If the ankle is too painful to walk without a limp, then it is better to use crutches and rest the ankle until weight-bearing is non-painful. After the first 2-3 days of healing, then it is important to begin moving the ankle actively to achieve and improve full range of motion. This is also important for regaining proper weight bearing without limping. Ultimately, the proper implementation of motion and slow progression of activity will help to return to full activity without any deficits. I would encourage you to look for assistance from an athletic trainer that might be located at your son's school. If there is not an athletic trainer to speak to locally, then advice from an urgent care or clinic is advised.