2023-07-13 16:27:32
Thank you to Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor, author of “Your health in the world following” (Editions du Rocher).
When the ankle twists suddenly, it is the ligaments that suffer! From first aid to rehabilitation, we discover the reflexes to take better care.
The GREEK protocol: Icing, Rest, Elevation, Contention
The GREEK protocol is applied to limit pain and contain damage:
First step, ice the joint (at least 10 minutes, 4 times a day, for a week) with ice cubes protected by a cloth, a packet of frozen peas or a bead bag taken from the freezer. Also practical, especially when hiking, are cold bombs sold in pharmacies.
In parallel, we put the leg at rest …
… and it is raised as often as possible to promote blood circulation and limit edema.
Finally, we compress using a splint or an elastic band.
Should you go to the emergency room when you have a sprain?
No need to run to the emergency room, on the other hand, it is absolutely necessary to see a general practitioner. If you heard a cracking sound, had a strong nausea or felt unwell at the time of the incident, or if the swelling is still very important following the application of cold, you consult him as soon as possible. Otherwise, we wait 3-5 days for the ankle to hurt less. The doctor can then assess the severity of the trauma and, accordingly, readjust the restraint (elastic band, rigid or semi-rigid orthosis, etc.), prescribe anticoagulant treatment to prevent the risk of phlebitis in the event of immobilization. And we ask him physical therapy sessions for rehabilitation.
Should we systematically do an X-ray in case of a sprain?
A radio is very rarely necessary. It is recommended only when:
it is impossible to walk in support more than four steps, in children under 18 years old, systematically, over 55 years old, systematically, if there is pain on palpation of the bony structures.
If the general practitioner deems it necessary, he may possibly prescribe a CT scan, an echo or an MRI. If we go spontaneously to the radiologist, he can give us a prescription so that the radio is reimbursed.
What medicine to relieve pain?
The pain is soothed with paracetamol (max 3 g/day), combined with an anti-inflammatory cream for local action (ask the pharmacist for advice) or anti-haematoma and decongestant essential oils, wintergreen type, real natural aspirin (1 drop diluted in 5 drops of calophyllum oil), and helichrysum (1 to 2 drops, pure). To alternate.
How long does it take to recover following a sprain?
Recovery can be long. It depends on the severity of the trauma, but it takes at least 4 to 6 weeks to feel no pain at all, even for a small sprain. Rehabilitation with a physiotherapist can reduce edema and stiffness, improve walking stability by strengthening proprioception and limit the risk of sequelae. Not to be skipped or shortened.
Sprain: when should you operate?
Ligamentoplasty, which consists of replace a ligament, is exceptional, often reserved for high-level athletes or in cases of significant instability of the joint and/or other associated lesions. It is the surgeon who recommends it (or not) following clinical examinations and medical imaging. After the operation (under arthroscopy), allow 3 to 6 months for complete recovery, with rehabilitation.
Read also:
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