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Medical Video: How to Treat a Foot Sprain
Sprains are a type of ligament injury caused by tearing of ligamentous fibers. The ligament itself is a strong and elastic band that connects bones to bones, while holding the joints in place. Ligaments can be partially torn, or can be completely torn. Unlike sprains, sprains are injuries caused by stretching muscles that exceed normal capacity.
In general, sprains and dislocations are most common in the ankles and knees. The problematic ligaments will often swell quickly and painful. The greater the swelling and pain experienced, it means the more severe the level of injury you experience.
Signs and symptoms of sprains or sprains
Pay attention to the following signs if you suspect an wrist, leg or knee has an injury:
- Pain or throbbing pain
- Swelling
- The problem area feels soft and warm
- Bruises
For most mild sprained and sprained injuries, you can start self-medication at home.
What should be done to deal with sprains and sprains?
Follow the instructions below:
1. Protect
Protect the sprained area of the body to prevent further injury using a buffer. Or, in the case of a sprained or sprained ankle, use shoes that can elevate and support your feet.
2. Rest
Stop the activity that caused the injury immediately. Rest troubled limbs. Do not place heavy loads on the sprained area for 48 hours.
However, a sprained injury does not mean you completely stop your daily productivity. Even in cases of ankle sprains, you can still train other muscles. For example, using an electric bicycle that focuses on exercises on your arms, you can train both your hands and healthy feet, while resting the injured leg.
For ease of daily mobility, your doctor may advise you to use crutches.
3. Compress ice
Apply cold compresses (you can get them at pharmacies) or chunks of ice cubes wrapped in plastic or clean cloth just above the area that swells in 48-72 hours after injury for 20-30 minutes every 2-3 hours. This will help limit the development of swelling after an injury.
If you use an ice cube compress, do not leave the compress too long in the area of the injury to prevent tissue damage.
4. Special bandages for sprains
Bandage of dislocated areas to limit swelling and too much movement which can cause further damage. You can use a simple elastic bandage or a type of bandage made of neoprene. You can get all of this at the nearest pharmacy.
Areas with problems must be wrapped properly and comfortably, not too tight to limit blood flow. Remove the bandage before going to bed.
5. Lift it up
If your leg or hand is sprained, prop up the problematic foot to elevate its position above the heart during the first 48 hours.
6. Take painkillers
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications (NSAIDs), such as mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, paracetamol, or panadol to relieve pain and inflammation, however, these drugs have some side effects, such as increasing the risk of bleeding and ulcers. These drugs must be used wisely. Consult a doctor for more information.
7. Avoid four things
In the first two days after injury, you are required to avoid the following four things:
- Heat, for example hot baths, saunas, or hot patches
- Alcohol, consuming alcohol will increase bleeding and swelling, while slowing down the recovery process
- Running, or other types of exercise that can aggravate the injury
- Massage, will increase the risk of bleeding and swelling
How long does it take to recover from a sprain or sprain?
The duration of recovery of a sprain or sprained will depend on the severity of the injury. Generally, you will be able to recover and walk within 1-2 weeks after the incident. You may be able to return to using the wrist comfortably within 6-8 weeks afterwards, and be able to return to exercise as before in the next 8-12 weeks.
In some cases, some people may experience further complaints, such as pain, swelling or instability that arise for months afterwards, even years.
Call your doctor if your sprains don't improve or the symptoms appear to be getting worse. Your doctor may recommend you to an orthopedic specialist for further examination and therapy.
