Sustained an Ankle Sprain? Call on the POLICE

You would have heard of the RICE, PRICER, ICE principles which have been used as first aid management in acute injuries. HOWEVER, recent students have showed that this is now outdated and the POLICE principle has been brought in.

What does P.O.L.I.C.E stand for and how does it related to ankle sprains?

• PROTECT: Taping, splinting or bracing the ankle during the first few days to ensure no further injury occurs to the ligaments. Your physiotherapist will know which is best for you after a thorough assessment.

• OPTIMAL LOADING: While it is important to rest, resting for too long may actually impede healing and function of the ankle, which may ultimately lead to deconditioning of the tissues: joint stiffness, muscle weakness, muscle tightness and reduced balance and control (proprioception). Gradual or optimal loading of the ankle can be guided by your physiotherapist.

• ICE: Cryotherapy helps lower skin and tissue temperature, assisting to reduce excessive tissue blood flow and decrease pain intensity. Do not apply ice directly onto skin and apply for no longer than 20 minutes to avoid any ice burns.

• COMPRESSION: reduces pain and swelling. The ankle should feel compressed but not uncomfortable or painful. Focal compression to the medial and lateral ankle gutters through “U” leukofoam is an additional method our physiotherapists use to ensure a fast recovery.

• ELEVATION: Decreases hydrostatic pressure, reduces the accumulation of fluid, and improves circulation. Whenever you are sitting or resting, ensure the ankle is elevated above the level of the heart for optimal results.

If you have any further questions or queries about your ankle sprain and how to manage it, please call us on 9873 2770 or make an appointment online today https://bookings.nookal.com/bookings/location/39XKS with one of our physiotherapists. We can assist you in your recovery and advise you on what ‘optimal loading’ is to get you up and going!