Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a foot sprain. This happens when you move suddenly, or bend or twist your foot too far in 1 direction.
Inside the foot are tough bands of tissue called ligaments, which hold the different bones together. During a sprain, 1 or more of those ligaments stretch too far or even tear. This can cause pain and swelling.
You might have pain when you try to walk or move your foot. Your foot might be bruised, and you might not be able to bend it or put weight on it.
You might be waiting on test results. The staff will notify you if there are concerning results.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Rest your foot. Use crutches to help you move around and keep weight off your foot.
●Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel over your foot. Never put ice right on your skin. Use ice every 1 to 2 hours for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Use for the first 24 to 48 hours after your injury.
●Wrap your foot with an elastic bandage to help with swelling.
●Prop your foot on pillows, keeping it raised above the level of your heart. This helps lessen pain and swelling.
●Slowly begin to stretch your foot when the swelling and pain improve.
●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, such as acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if:
•Your toes turn blue or gray, or feel numb.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●The pain or swelling gets worse.
●Your ankle is not stable or feels wobbly.
●You cannot put any weight on your foot.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Foot sprain (The Basics)
Patient education: How to use crutches (The Basics)
