Foot Sprain
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
A foot sprain is a stretched or torn ligament in the foot or toe. Ligaments are tough tissues that connect bones.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have numbness or tingling below the injury, such as in your toes.
- The skin on your injured foot is blue or pale.
- You have increased pain, even after you take pain medicine.
Call your doctor if:
- You have new weakness in your foot.
- You have new or increased swelling in your foot.
- You have new or increased stiffness when you move your injured foot.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and 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 if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. Do not give these medicines to children younger than 6 months without direction from a healthcare provider.
- 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.
Self-care:
- Rest your foot. Limit movement in your sprained foot for the first 2 to 3 days. You might need crutches to take weight off your injured foot as it heals. Use crutches as directed.
- Apply ice on your foot for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
- Compress your foot. You may need to use tape or an elastic bandage to support your foot if you have a mild sprain. You may need a splint on your foot for support if your sprain is severe. Wear your splint for as many days as directed.
- Elevate your foot above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your foot on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
Exercise your foot:
You may be given exercises to improve your strength and to help decrease stiffness. The exercises and physical therapy can help restore strength and increase the range of motion in your foot. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to your normal activities or play sports.
Prevent another foot sprain:
- Warm up and stretch before you exercise.
- Do not exercise when you feel pain or are tired.
- Wear equipment to protect yourself when you play sports.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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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.
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