Ankle sprains are an unnatural twisting motion of the ankle joint that happen when the foot is planted awkwardly or when the joint is hit with a forceful blow. Sprained ankles are one of the most frequent types of musculoskeletal injuries. Over 23,000 people require medical care for ankle sprains every day in the United States.

Minor sprains should heal with time, so when a sprain does occur, just remember RICE:

Rest. Keep as much weight off your ankle as possible.

Ice. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours until the swelling has decreased.

Compress. St. Cloud Orthopedic Sports Medicine Director Tom Jensen explains the preferred method to compress a sprained ankle in this month’s featured video.

Elevate. Raise your ankle when sitting or lying down.

If you experience a severe ankle sprain, call St. Cloud Orthopedics to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.