Ankle fractures are not uncommon and can occur anytime due to accidents, particularly in an athlete. While the Genesis regenerative sports and aesthetic medicine experts agree that the best treatment depends on the location and severity of your injury, proper handling of the ankle can improve the treatment’s efficiency. While you should go to your doctor immediately if you suspect you have a broken ankle, it would be necessary to perform some first aid on the injury to prevent worsening. Here is what you can do as you prepare to seek a proper diagnosis from your doctor.
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Clean and Wrap
Sometimes you can experience wounds in the ankle, such as cuts and open fractures, which you should clean before wrapping the ankle. Generally, gently wash the wound as you carefully remove any debris. While you book the next appointment with your doctor, wrap the wound using a splint or an ACE wrap. You can also practice PRICE, which stands for protect, rest, ice, compress, and elevate until your appointment.
Protect Your Ankle
When your ankle is broken, you can protect it using a splint to avoid further injury. A sturdy flat object is the most basic splint you can use to press up against your bone. Look for a ruler and use medical tape or gauze to keep it in place and prevent the broken bone from moving. You can also consult your doctor about how to splint your ankle before they get to you properly. Also, if you wear shoes that support your ankle, you can tighten laces to keep your leg immobile while you go to the hospital.
Rest Your Ankle
Continuing walking with a broken ankle can only worsen the situation as the ankle bears extra weight, which can cause further injury. Therefore, try to stay put as you wait for help or ask for help if you have to move around. You can also use a firm crutch, pole, or branch to support yourself as you hobble away. You will also learn to continue the rest even after your initial treatment, especially the first three weeks. Therefore, ensure that you wait for your doctor’s advice to resume activities and adhere to them strictly.
Manage Pain and Swelling
You will experience pain and swelling from the broken ankle, but you can relieve it by applying ice. Get some ice pack, ice bag, or frozen veggies to mask the pain and reduce swelling by decreasing blood flow to the injured ankle. However, avoid using the ice directly to your skin as the cold temperatures could harm your skin. Also, it would be better to use crushed ice where possible as it can follow your ankle’s contours.
Compress and Elevate Your Ankle
Reducing blood flow to the affected ankle can minimize swelling and inflammation, and you can achieve this by compressing the ankle. Use elastic bandages either directly or to support a splint. You can also reduce the flow of blood in the affected area by elevating the ankle as soon as you can. You must elevate your ankle over your hip while seated and over your heart and chest when lying.
Reach out to Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine to book a broken or fractured ankle appointment. Your provider will help you understand how to care for yourself as you plan for your appointment.