1. Compression Stops Swelling
Using a compression bandage after an ankle injury helps reduce swelling and bruising of the injured area. Compression bandages apply light pressure to the injured area and help keep it immobile. Keeping a compression bandage in place for two to three days will help a sprained ankle heal more quickly.
2. Not Too Tight
Finding balance with a compression bandage is key to promoting good circulation. Good circulation is important for complete healing. Without proper blood flow to the injury, all the vital nutrients and fluids necessary won't get where they need to go. so, dont' wrap your ankle too tightly. If you experience tingling in your foot or the bandage just feels too tight, loosen it until it's comfortable.
3. Use a Little Cushion Please
When most people wrap an injured ankle they leave out an important step; a cushion between the ankle and the bandage. This little bit of extra TLC will make the wrapping feel better and keep the bandage in place. Do this by cutting two horseshoe shaped pieces out of a piece of felt or thick white bandage material. Place the pieces around the ankle joint on either side of the foot with the opening facing up. Wrap the bandage normally around the inured ankle.
4. A Figure 8 is Great
The standard way to wrap an injured ankle is in a figure eight. This provides both immobilization around the ankle and support beneath the foot. When an ankle is injured, the foot and ankle joint become unstable. The bandage works to provide extra support while the ligaments and muscles heal around the ankle joint. Start wrapping around the ankle joint on top of the piece of felt and then go under the foot leaving a hole at the heal. Keep wrapping in the figure eight style until you've used your entire bandage. Secure it with the enclosed clips. Be sure as you wrap to go not only around the injured ankle but above it as well for extra support.
5. The Right Wrap
There are lots of options when it comes to compression bandages for ankle injuries. Since it takes a while for a sprain to heal, you may want to consider different bandages for different stages of healing. An ACE bandage or other brand of compression bandage is the right choice for the initial injury. Keep the compression bandage in place until your doctor says you may put some weight on the ankle. After that you may want to go to a rigid ankle brace with Velcro for more support, greater ease of use and increased comfort. Finally, as your ankle continues to heal consider a lighter weight sports ankle brace for a little added support during regular activities.
