Is a boot or crutches better for sprained ankle?

Is a boot or crutches better for sprained ankle?

Rest: All ankle sprains require rest. The length of time will depend on the grade of sprain. Your doctor can help you with a timeline. You may need to use crutches if it hurts to put weight on your foot.

Is a walking boot good for a sprained ankle?

Doctors recommend you wear them as a way of speeding the healing process. A walking boot protects the foot and ankle and is common when someone has broken their leg or foot, is struggling from shin splints or a severe sprain, or has suffered some other type of foot or leg injury.

Are crutches better than a boot?

But generally, they complement each other: The walking boot protects the injured foot from further damage and re-aligns it so that it can recover. Crutches prevent extra pressure and weight being added to the walking boot so that it can perform its function better.

What ankle injury requires a boot?

Patients recovering from an ankle sprain or fracture usually need to wear a walking boot. A walking boot helps with pain and mobility. If the ankle sprain is classified as grade II, meaning a ligament is partially torn, a higher walking boot may be needed.

Can I use a walking boot instead of crutches?

The introduction of walking boots in the market has significantly known to replace the crutches. As a walking boot, itself is utilized as mobility aid in terms of injury of soft tissues, stable fractures, rehab, trauma, sprains of grade 2 or 3 and potentially for post-operative use.

Does a Grade 2 ankle sprain need a boot?

For a Grade 2 sprain, a removable plastic device, such as a walking boot or aircast brace, can provide support. Grade 3 sprains may require a short leg cast or cast-brace for 10 to 14 days. In most cases, swelling and pain will last 2 to 3 days.

How long should you use crutches for a sprained ankle?

Most lateral ankle sprains take 2 to 6 weeks to heal, but Grade 3 sprains can take as long as 12 weeks. You may need crutches for 2-3 days to start.

Can you walk without walking boot?

Walking: You may walk on the foot as comfort allows but you may find it easier to walk on your heel in the early stages. The boot you have been given is for your comfort only and is not needed to aid fracture healing but will help to settle your symptoms.

How can you walk on a sprained ankle without crutches?

Rest – Rest your ankle as much as possible. Ice – Apply ice packs or submerge your foot and ankle in cold water. Compression – Use an elastic ankle sleeve or an elasticized wrap to help reduce swelling. Elevation – Elevate your ankle to the height of your hip when in a seated position.

How long do you need crutches for a sprained ankle?

Use crutches. Do not walk or stand on the injured leg for at least three days. After three days, start gradual weight bearing. If the ankle hurts, back off from bearing weight.