Hot Packs or Cold Packs for Treatment of Ankle Sprain

A sprain occurs when the ligament connecting bones in a joint is stretched or torn. Although sprains can occur in many joints of the body, the most common site of sprain is the ankle joint. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), everyday, more than 25,000 individuals sprain an ankle in the United States.

An ankle sprain usually occurs when the foot is turned inward when a person runs, turns, falls, or lands on the ankle after a jump. The severity of ankle sprain depends on whether the ligament is stretched or torn (partial or complete tearing) and whether there are many ligaments involved.

Mild ankle sprains usually do not involve special medical treatment. In most cases of mild ankle injuries, application of cold packs and other remedies may just be enough to treat the condition.

For acute (recent) ankle sprain, application of ice pack is advised. Ice application can help relieve swelling and pain in the injured area. Also resting and elevating the injured limb may help decrease swelling. Over-the-counter pain medications may also be taken to help relieve pain.

To apply, wrap the ice pack in a towel and put it over the injured ankle for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not apply the pack directly over the skin or apply for more than 20 minutes at a time as this can cause frostbite or cold injury. Avoid using hot packs during the first two days of injury as this can further result in more swelling.

People with other health problems such as nerve problems or Raynauds disease should consult their doctor before applying ice packs.

After swelling has subsided, usually after 48 to 72 hours, hot pack application can be used. The hot pack should be wrapped in a towel and applied over the injured area for 20 minutes. Make sure that you check the area from time to time to prevent burn injuries. If the pack seems to be too hot, add more layers of towel.

Caution should be observed when using hot packs in people who have decreased sensibility of heat or people who have nerve problems and other health conditions.

While mild cases of ankle sprain can be managed with RICE (Rest, Ice application, Compression, and Elevation) therapy, severe cases require immediate medical attention. If severe pain is felt, the injured area looks crooked, or you are unable to move the injured joint, it may be a sign of a more serious problem. A consultation with a health care provider is necessary.

If hot or cold pack is applied, avoid sleeping as this could result in cold or burn injury to the site. Let someone time the application and check the area from time to time.

Source:
Questions and Answers Sprains and Strains. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).