Protect Your Ankles Your ankles are some of the most vulnerable
joints of the body, having to withstand the impact of up to
three times your body weight. If you hurt your ankle while
playing sports or by simply stepping off a curb the wrong way,
the old memory helper "RICE" is still the best form of
treatment. RICE stands for: Rest, Ice, Compression and
Elevation. Rest. Get off your ankle right away. Ice. Put crushed
ice into a plastic bag or wrap it in a towel and place it on
your ankle for at least 30 minutes right after the injury. If
there's any sign of swelling after the first 30 minutes, apply
ice for 30 minutes on and 15 minutes off over the next few
hours. When the pain eases, try standing and putting your weight
on your ankle. If this causes pain, try to stay off your foot
for the next 24 hours. Compress. Support your ankle with a 3"
elastic bandage (available in supermarkets and drug stores). Do
not wrap the bandage too tightly, it may cut off or slow blood
to your foot. Elevate. Make sure your ankl