If ankle pain has knocked you off your feet, let Dr. Troy Fowler at Foot & Ankle Medical Center – your podiatrist in Nampa & Fruitland, ID – help you get the relief you deserve.

Top Home Remedies for Ankle Pain 

Ankle pain can be difficult to deal with, as it can interfere with everything you need to do. If you’re suffering from ankle pain, there are a few steps you can take at home to get some relief, including those below.

Try the RICE Method 

The RICE method has helped various forms of pain for years and is pretty easy to follow.

• R: Rest is often the key to pain relief. If you try to walk around while you’re in pain, it can get worse. Try to stay off your feet as much as possible until the pain dissipates.
• I: Ice is great for swelling. When an injury is present, blood flows to that area to help with healing. Unfortunately, this can cause pain and inflammation. Putting an ice pack or cold compress on your ankle for about 20 minutes every three hours can help reduce that inflammation.
• C: If you have an elastic bandage, wrap your ankle. This compression can help further reduce inflammation.
• E. As you rest and ice your ankle – as well as while you sleep – try elevating your foot.

Stretch Your Ankle 

Being very careful, try gently stretching your ankle a few times a day. Once the swelling goes down, you can try some gentle exercises, as well.

Wear the Right Shoes 

When you do walk, be sure that you wear shoes that fit properly and provide arch support. Wearing flat shoes, shoes without support, or those that are too tight or too loose can increase your pain.

Use NSAIDs Sparingly 

NSAIDs like ibuprofen can be very beneficial in addressing inflammation and pain. However, taking them too often or for too long can cause health issues, so don’t take more than recommended or for more than a few days.

Visit Our Podiatrist 

If the home remedies above do not help or you find yourself needing NSAIDs after a few days for ankle pain, it’s time to seek help from Dr. Fowler at Foot & Ankle Medical Center in Nampa & Fruitland, ID.

Don’t just suffer from ankle pain. Kick it to the curb with the help of Dr. Fowler in Nampa & Fruitland, ID. You can schedule an appointment at Foot & Ankle Medical Center by calling (208) 466-3338 today.