Simple, stupid question. Why do I need to elevate my sprained ankle?!


Question:

Simple, stupid question. Why do I need to elevate my sprained ankle?

I am elevating and icing it just like the doctor said. I am not questioning that it IS needed, I just don't know WHY it's needed. :-)

Thanks!


Answers:

The injury allows inflammation, fluid is increased in the tissues and spaces putting pressure on the nerves which causes pain and slows return to normal function.

If you put the ankle in a lower position gravity causes increased escape of fluid into the tissues and spaces, increasing the tension on them and nerves. That increases pain and slows healing.

Elevate the ankle to reverse this process, lessening the fluid in the tissues and spaces, which lessens pressure on hyper sensitive nerves that cause the pain and speeds healing. Gravity works for you rather than against you and actually helps to drain the swollen area.




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