How you handle the first days and weeks after an ankle sprain shapes your recovery and lowers the risk of a repeat injury.
Do
- Use RICE early: rest, ice, compression, elevation
- Protect the ankle with a brace if advised
- Start gentle motion and physical therapy as it heals
- Get evaluated if you cannot bear weight
Don't
- Push through significant pain or return to sport too soon
- Skip rehab, which is what prevents chronic instability
- Ignore an ankle that keeps giving way
See our Ankle Sprain page. Book online or call 917-398-3668.