It's generally not advisable to attempt to fix a dislocated ankle at home. A dislocated ankle requires professional medical attention to ensure proper realignment and to avoid potential long-term complications. Attempting to fix it yourself can cause further damage to the surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels.
Instead of trying to fix it yourself, focus on these initial steps before seeking professional medical help:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Rest | Rest your ankle immediately. Avoid putting any weight on it. According to recommendations, you will need to rest your ankle for approximately 6 weeks following the injury. |
| Ice | Apply ice to your ankle. This helps reduce swelling and pain. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour, or as directed by a healthcare professional. |
| Elevate | Elevate your ankle above your heart to minimize swelling. |
| Compress | Compress your ankle with a bandage to provide support and reduce swelling. Don't wrap it too tightly, as this can cut off circulation. |
| Crutches | Use crutches, if directed by a doctor, to keep weight off the injured ankle. |
| Seek Professional Help | Seek immediate medical attention. A doctor will properly diagnose the extent of the injury (including any fractures) and realign the ankle. |
| Physical Therapy | Go to physical therapy, if directed. This will help you regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion after the ankle has healed. |
Why professional medical attention is crucial:
- Proper Diagnosis: Only a doctor can accurately diagnose the extent of the dislocation and rule out any associated fractures or ligament damage.
- Safe Realignment: Realignment (reduction) of a dislocated ankle requires specific techniques and often anesthesia to minimize pain and muscle spasms. A medical professional can perform this safely.
- Preventing Complications: Improper handling can lead to nerve damage, blood vessel injury, and chronic instability. A doctor can take precautions to prevent these complications.
