A sprain in any part of the body is usually the result of a torn or overstretched muscle. It happens when a joint gets twisted, causing an injury to the ligaments that connect your bones in a joint. Ankle sprains occur due to a variety of factors, including running and walking on uneven ground, wearing high heels, accidents, and lifting heavy weights. A person with an ankle sprain faces symptoms like pain, bruising, swelling, and restricted range of motion. In case you have severe pain, do seek medical assistance immediately. However, mild pain can be effectively treated with simple home remedies. Let us learn about a few of them.

Turmeric

One of the most-used spices in the kitchen, turmeric is a superb pain reliever as well. This is due to the presence of anti-inflammatory properties in it. Besides, turmeric is also considered to be anti-spasmodic and therefore helps in relaxing the muscles, tissues, and joints and reducing pain and swelling. All you need to do is take two tablespoons of turmeric powder and mix it with one tablespoon of lime juice and some lukewarm water. Now dab this paste on the sprained ankle and then cover it with a bandage. Let it sit for the entire night, and then repeat it again in the morning. Follow this treatment until the pain goes away completely. Try another concoction by mixing equal parts of turmeric powder and limestone powder. Add some water to this mixture to make a thick paste. Before applying, heat this paste slightly. Make sure you apply it before going to bed. Wrap a bandage over it. Remove the bandage the next morning. Follow this remedy for about three days.

Garlic

Garlic is another superb remedy for alleviating pain caused by a sprain in the ankle. Owing to the presence of anti-inflammatory properties, garlic is useful in reducing pain and inflammation. Besides, garlic possesses healing qualities and can boost the body’s strength and energy. This further helps in speeding up the healing process. Just add one tablespoon of garlic juice to two tablespoons of lukewarm coconut oil. Then rub the concoction gently on the sprained ankle. Let it sit for half an hour and then wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this remedy at least four times a day till the ankle gets healed completely. Alternately, add one teaspoon of garlic oil to one teaspoon of almond oil. Massage the affected ankle with this solution three times a day. Do it daily for quick healing. Moreover, this remedy is also useful for curing arthritis and rheumatism.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is quite an age-old remedy for reducing pain and inflammation related to a sprain. Castor oil is basically a triglyceride that consists of ricinoleic acid, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. To use it, just take a cotton cloth and fold it a couple of times to make a thick pad. Then soak this cotton pad in some castor oil. Then place it on your ankle and wrap it with several layers of plastic. Do it a couple of times a day for quick healing.

Onion

Owing to the presence of anti-inflammatory properties, onions are quite effective in treating sprained ankles, arthritis, jammed fingers, and rheumatism. They are also very helpful in alleviating swelling, pain, and inflammation. Just chop an onion into small pieces and then put them in a muslin cloth. Tie the cloth with a rubber band. Now place the cloth on the sprained ankle for about two hours. If you wish, tie a piece of cloth above it so that it does not slip on your ankle. Follow it two times a day for quick healing. Alternately, keep an onion in the refrigerator for two hours. Then cut it into small pieces. Mix them with some salt, and then apply them to the swollen ankle. Then wrap the affected area with an elastic bandage. Do it every eight hours.

While a sprained ankle can be quite worrying, with the right treatments and remedies, getting back on track is not a problem. However, do remember to consult a healthcare professional for proper medical attention in cases of severe injuries.

Frequently asked questions

What is a sprained ankle?

A sprained ankle is an injury that occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. It typically happens due to sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle, often during physical activities or accidents.

Can I heal a sprained ankle at home, or do I need to see a doctor?

Mild sprains can often be treated at home with rest, ice, compression, elevation, and pain relievers. However, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

How long does it take to heal a sprained ankle?

Mild sprains may improve within a few days to a couple of weeks, while more severe sprains can take several weeks to several months to fully heal.

Is it okay to apply heat to a sprained ankle for pain relief?

Heat is generally not recommended for the first 48 hours after a sprain because it can increase swelling. Cold packs are more effective for reducing inflammation and pain during the initial stages of healing.