Ankle Stirrup Splint
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
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.
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DISCHARGE 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 may be needed. Do not wait until your pain is severe before you take this medicine. The medicine may not work as well at controlling your pain if you wait too long to take it. Pain medicine can make you dizzy or sleepy. Prevent falls by asking for help when you want to get out of bed.
- NSAIDs help decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider 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. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Exercise your ankle:
Begin gentle exercise as directed. The exercises can help restore strength and increase the motion in your foot. Check with your healthcare provider before you return to normal activities or sports.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Contact your 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.
Further information
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