Daily Survival Guide

How to Treat a Sprained Ankle
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1. Elevate the ankle.
   Sit down and raise the ankle at least 18 inches above the ground. Set the ankle on an object to support it.


2. Make a pressure bandage.
   If no emergency bandage is available, cut or tear cloth into long, 4-inch-wide strips. Two 3-foot strips should suffice.


3. Wrap the ankle.
   Place one end of the bandage in the middle of the foot and use a figure-eight pattern to wrap it up and over the ankle and back around the foot. Keep the wrapping snug.l use tape, rubber bands, or string to secure the end of the bandage to the leg.


4. Make a cold compress.
   Place ice in a plastic bag or wrap it in a shirt. Do not apply the ice directly to the skin; add a layer of clothing or plastic to prevent freezing of tissue.