Ice or Heat?

Question: I sprained my ankle 2 days ago, and I'm not sure if I should ice it or heat it, there is still a tiny bit of swelling, so I thought if I heat it the increased circulation should "flush" the fluids out.

Also what product should I use to help it heal faster? I heard arnica works well but I'm not sure.

Answers:
Keep using ice at the moment. Apply it for 10-15 minutes every hour. If you keep on the ice too long, you will have the same effect as heat - the blood flow to the area will increase and your ankle will swell to the size of a balloon.

Remember RICE:
Rest
Ice
Compression - use an ACE wrap or similar
Elevation - keep your ankle above your knee, knee above your hip whenever possible. This will help the swelling to go down.

Arnic gel works well. Available from most pharmacies or health food stores. This will help to draw the bruising and swelling out.

Other Answers:
Neither,

ice for the first 24 hours
heat from hours 24-48
elevation
ibuprofen
Source(s):
EMT

---

---

More Questions and Answers

• homeopathic remedies for deer tick infestation?
• Can an epidural injury cause backache and mobility problems?
• why does my sister's poop smell so bad?
• What is the best way to relieve stress from exams?
• how stop cankore sore?
• full body cleanse?
• what do community alcohol team do?
• Eye Patches?