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18 years
About three weeks ago, I sprained my ankle. I thought it'd heal with proper elevation and self treatment but it still looks swollen and there's an internal pain from time to time. Should I seek help?
Mar 19, 2015

Dr. Zakia Dimassi Pediatrics
Elevation and symptomatic treatment (bandage, topical anti-inflammatory cream) are usually the mainstay for a simple sprain of the ankle, but this may not be sufficient if you keep using your ankle, i.e. while ambulating, as this will further the already existing inflammation and delay the healing process of the injury. When the swelling and pain persist despite the above mentioned measures, an examination by a physician to assess the extent of the damage (usually it's a ligament that gets injured, but a minor fracture should be ruled out) and oral (systemic) treatment becomes necessary, with a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID) for 5-7 days become necessary.
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