A sprained ankle is a problem that many people face at one time or another. Whether you are athletic, or simply engaged in a daily activity. So what exactly should you do if you suffer from a sprained ankle? We’re going to explain that to you in this article.

How do I know if my ankle is sprained?

Did you fall or sprain your ankle (perhaps while walking) and are now suffering from it? Then chances are pretty good that your ankle is sprained or broken. Here’s how to recognize a sprained ankle:

• Immediate pain around the ankle joint, especially with movement or strain;
• Swelling of the ankle;
• Bruising on or around the ankle;
• Feeling of instability, especially while standing;
• Yellow spots on ankle.

If it bothers you a lot or you are in doubt, it is best to consult a doctor. Do you have a sprained ankle and the pain is getting worse? Then always visit a doctor.

What is the difference between sprained and sprained?

Although a sprain and a sprain both involve a joint, there is a slight difference between the two. A sprained ankle usually refers to a minor injury. In this case, the ligaments or tendons are stretched but not torn. With a sprain, this is often the case. Because of this, a sprain can also hurt more quickly.

Can you walk with a sprained ankle?

Walking with a sprained ankle is usually not recommended. Especially in the first few days, it is important to take it very easy. Often the ankle also hurts so much that walking is not possible. Ask your doctor for advice if you feel the need to exercise more.

How long does recovery from an ankle sprain take?

Recovery from an ankle sprain depends on the severity of the sprain. It is often divided into three degrees, each of which has its own recovery period:

• Grade 1, mild sprain: recovery may take 1 to 3 weeks. It is a mild sprain or tear, which can heal quickly with rest and good care;
• Grade 2, moderate sprain: recovery may take 3 to 6 weeks. There is probably a partial tear;
• Grade 3, severe sprain: recovery may take 8 weeks or even longer. The ligament is completely torn. Therefore, the recovery process is considerably longer and may require other treatments or even surgery.

How does a sprained ankle heal the fastest?

A sprained ankle should always be treated properly. With proper treatment, you will recover fastest. However, there are tools that can help the recovery process. These include low-level laser therapy is a fine treatment for pain and can help speed up the healing process.

What treatment for sprained ankle?

1. RICE Method

For proper recovery from an ankle sprain, the RICE method is often used. The method works as follows:

• Rest: avoid strain to prevent further damage. Use crutches if necessary;
• Ice: Apply ice to the sprain every 2-3 hours for the first 48 hours. Do this for 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and pain;
• Compression: use compression bandages to minimize swelling;
• Elevation: keep the ankle high (above heart level) to reduce swelling.

2. Taping

Taping a sprained ankle is good for stabilizing the ankle. Use sports tape or medical tape. This will support the ligaments during the recovery process.

3. Exercises

There are special exercises for a sprained ankle. Start with gentle mobility exercises such as twisting the ankle when the swelling has subsided. Then you can slowly build up to strength and balance exercises.

4. Bandage

Bandaging a sprained ankle is good for reducing swelling and improving stability. Use an elastic bandage to wrap the ankle. Start at the toes and work up toward the calf. Make sure the bandage is tight enough but that it does not obstruct blood circulation.

5. Cooling

It is good to cool a sprained ankle to reduce pain and swelling. Use an ice pack or a bag of ice wrapped in a cloth. Keep the ice on the area for about 20 minutes at a time.

6. Red light therapy

Another treatment for a sprained ankle is the use of red light therapy. This form of light therapy can improve blood flow, accelerate cell regeneration and reduce inflammation. As a result, you may be able to speed up the recovery process. Check out here how to use red light therapy for a sprained ankle.

A sprained ankle and red light therapy

Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy, can help well with a sprained ankle or other sprained body part. The low level of red light penetrates deeply into tissues without heating. This creates several beneficial effects:

Cellular healing;

Reduction of inflammation;

Improved blood circulation;

Pain relief.

These properties make red light therapy an effective treatment for various causes of complaint. It is a safe treatment method with little to no side effects.

We have helped many people reduce or prevent pain, complaints and various conditions. See all experiences with ankle pain as well as other experiences with our PowerCure low level laser.

Is there science behind red light therapy?

The use of low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-level laser light energy. This light creates interactions with the tissues in your body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions.

What can PowerCure’s laser therapy do for your sprain?

The PowerCure laser is an effective treatment method for pain, inflammation, disorders, injuries and more. In addition, it is also a useful treatment for sprains. By treating with the laser for a few minutes daily, it is already possible to reduce pain and symptoms. View our treatment protocol for sprains here.

Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and what it can help you with? Then especially take here take a look.