Ankle Stirrup Splint

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

An ankle stirrup splint is used after an injury to increase comfort and limit movement. The splint squeezes your ankle between 2 plastic pads. The pads are filled with air to cushion and support your ankle while it heals.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Rest:

Rest your ankle for 3 days so it can heal. You may need crutches to take weight off your injured ankle when you walk. Use crutches as directed.

Ice:

Ice helps decrease pain and swelling. Put crushed ice in a plastic bag and cover it with a towel. Put the ice on your ankle for 15 to 20 minutes every hour. Do this for 3 days.

Support:

The tight hold of the stirrup splint helps support your ankle as it heals. Some ankle sprains may be treated with an elastic wrap and the stirrup splint to reduce swelling. Wear your stirrup splint as directed.

Elevate:

Raise your ankle above your hip for 15 minutes every 3 to 4 hours. This will help decrease pain and swelling. Lie down on the couch and place your ankle on pillows to elevate your ankle comfortably.

Medicines:

• Pain medicine: You may be given medicine to take away or decrease pain. Do not wait until the pain is severe before you take your medicine.
  
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine: This group of medicine is also called NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine may be given to bring down a fever or to decrease pain. This medicine can be bought without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems if they are not taken correctly.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits.

Exercise your ankle:

Begin gentle exercise as directed. The exercises can help restore strength and increase the motion in your foot. Check with your primary healthcare provider before you return to normal activities or sports.

Follow up with your primary healthcare provider as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Contact your primary healthcare provider if:

• Your ankle is weak, numb, painful, or swollen.
  
  
• Your foot is cold.
  
  
• Your ankle is stiff when you move it.
  
  
• You injure your ankle after treatment.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your injury or treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.