Sprains Home Remedies

Sprains don't necessarily hurt a lot at first, and people may assume it's okay to keep doing the activity that got them into trouble in the first place.

Available at some drugstores and from mail-order catalogs, air casts can be pumped up with air to put even pressure on the ankle.

Available at drugstores and sporting goods stores, gel packs stay flexible even when frozen and mold themselves to the contours of the joint.

Aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibit the body's production of prostaglandins, inflammatory chemicals that cause swelling and delay healing time.

Sprains would be a lot less common if the entire world were as flat as a running track.

Once the sprain is better, it's worth taking the time to strengthen and condition the joint, which reduces stress on the ligaments.

No one enjoys stretching very much, but it's worth getting in the habit, especially if you're recovering from a sprain and the muscles around the joint are tighter than they should be.

Applying cold to a sprain deadens pain and reduces internal bleeding or the accumulation of fluids in the injured area.

Compressing the area with an elastic bandage helps prevent fluid from accumulating, which reduces swelling and pain.

For the first day or two after a sprain, elevate the area for as long as possible. If you've sprained your ankle, for example, put a few pillows underneath your calf.