Car accidents leave victims with various major and minor injuries. Even something as simple as a sprained ankle may require medical intervention to heal fully.
Mayo Clinic explains treatment options for sprained ankles. Car accident victims deserve to make complete recoveries and understand which treatment options the at-fault party could bear financial responsibility for.
Medications
Usually, over-the-counter medication, such as naproxen sodium, ibuprofen and acetaminophen, helps car crash victims manage the pain caused by a sprained ankle.
Self-care
Patients with a sprained ankle may take care of themselves at home using the R.I.C.E. approach:
- Rest, from activities that trigger discomfort, pain or inflammation.
- Ice the injury using ice packs or ice slush baths for 15 to 20 minutes. Those with decreased sensation, diabetes or vascular disease may want to consult their physician about alternatives to icing their sprained ankle.
- Compression garments, such as elastic bandages, wrapped around the ankle help address inflammation. Patients must take care to not wrap the ankle too tightly, as doing so could block their circulation.
- Elevate the ankle above heart level to prevent swelling and drain extra fluid with help from gravity.
Patients should use the R.I.C.E. method for two to three days.
Devices
Some patients with a sprained ankle require assistive devices, such as crutches, to help them get around. A doctor may also recommend sports tape, an elastic bandage or an ankle support brace. Those in severe discomfort may need to use a walking boot or cast to keep the ankle still during the healing process.
Even minor injuries like sprained ankles require professional medical care. Car crash victims never know when a major injury could have a major effect on their lives or legal case.