When putting ice on a sprained ankle, you should

When putting ice on a sprained ankle, you should

• A. 30 minutes then off for at least 30 minutes
• B. Keep ice on until swelling disappears
• C. Ice continuously for several hours
• D. Do not apply ice

Answer: (A)

Cold helps control swelling and numb pain after a sprain by causing blood vessels to constrict, which reduces fluid buildup. Because you don’t want to damage skin or nerves from lasting cold, use icing in short cycles rather than a continuous crush of cold. A practical approach is about 30 minutes of ice on, then at least 30 minutes off before repeating. Keep a thin barrier between the ice and skin, and check the area for numbness, color change, or excessive cold. This cycle in the first day or two supports swelling reduction while you rest, elevate, and monitor how the ankle feels.

Cold helps control swelling and numb pain after a sprain by causing blood vessels to constrict, which reduces fluid buildup. Because you don’t want to damage skin or nerves from lasting cold, use icing in short cycles rather than a continuous crush of cold. A practical approach is about 30 minutes of ice on, then at least 30 minutes off before repeating. Keep a thin barrier between the ice and skin, and check the area for numbness, color change, or excessive cold. This cycle in the first day or two supports swelling reduction while you rest, elevate, and monitor how the ankle feels.