6 First Aid Steps to Take Immediately If You Have a Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle is the most common ankle injury, occurring when one or more of the ligaments has been stretched, twisted, or torn.  In a minor sprain, some of the fibers within the ligament are stretched—but in more serious sprains, the ligament may be torn. Most minor sprains can be treated at home, but anything worse needs prompt medical attention and may even require surgery. If in doubt, you should get yourself (or the injured person) to the hospital for an X-ray. Here’s how to treat eight common pains at home, including a sprained ankle.

What to Look For:

• With a severe injury, you may not be able to bear weight on the leg.
• Pain in and around the joint. You may feel faint with the pain.
• Swelling, and later bruising, around the joint

Use RICE to remember treatment steps: R = Rest. I = Ice. C = Compression. E = Elevation.