Ankle Sprain: These Home Remedies Can Help!

Relatively often there is a sprain of the ankle. Therefore, today we are introducing some home remedies that can be used well for treatment to relieve swelling and pain. 

Certain home remedies can be used successfully to relieve swelling and pain from an  ankle sprain. In some cases, crutches, a bandage, or a splint are needed to immobilize the patient, but complementary natural remedies are often very helpful in relieving the discomfort and promoting the healing process.

Athletes in particular often suffer from ankle injuries, but this also occurs again and again in everyday life due to clumsy movements. When one or more ligaments of the ankle joint and the surrounding tissue are injured, it is called a sprained ankle. In this case, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, who will examine the injury more closely. Timely treatment is very important to avoid complications.

Ankle Sprain: Home Remedies for Supportive Treatment

Additional natural remedies for treating ankle injuries can  relieve pain and discomfort and promote the recovery process. However, you should always follow your doctor’s precise instructions. Under no circumstances should you replace the therapy recommended by your doctor with these home remedies.

Ankle sprain: apply ice

Cold therapy relieves swelling and pain through the targeted use of cold stimuli. It includes alternating baths, cold massages and also the application of cold compresses or ice packs.

Cold works extremely well because it contracts the blood vessels and also stimulates the release of the hormone serotonin. As a result, the pain subsides and the affected person feels much better immediately.

However, you should never put ice directly on the skin,  as this could result in a cold burn. It is best to use a cold pack. You can also hold the sprained ankle under very cold water.

Ankle sprain: arnica collapses

Arnica is a very popular medicinal plant that  is mainly used for bruises, sprains and muscle pain. You can gently massage arnica gel or an arnica ointment onto the injured area. Arnica oil is also very helpful.

This medicinal plant has analgesic properties. In addition, the massage with the oil or gel also reduces swelling. Arnica compresses are also very advisable.

• Make an arnica infusion and then pour it through a sieve to remove the solids. Then crush the arnica flowers in a mortar until you get a paste that shouldn’t be too watery. Apply this paste to the injured area.

• Use the warm arnica infusion to moisten a cloth, which you then place on the injured ankle. The warmth has a calming effect.

Real comfrey with an ankle sprain

Comfrey is a traditional medicinal plant that is very helpful in the event of an ankle sprain or dislocation (dislocation). You can use it to make an envelope, for example by moistening a cloth with a hot comfrey infusion and placing it on the injured ankle.

Note, however, that compresses containing comfrey or arnica should not be used for the first three days. Initially, cold treatments are important to reduce swelling. Warm compresses do exactly the opposite as they dilate the vessels.

You should also keep in mind  that a brace is very important and that you should elevate the affected leg. Again, this is essential to reduce swelling. After using the cold treatment, you can use the other recommended home remedies.

In the case of an ankle sprain, it makes sense to rest and take care of yourself at first, because you can only avoid future complaints if you take proper care of this injury. After a few days, you can start with adapted movements for mild and moderate sprains. Seek advice from your doctor and try these home remedies.