Your Care Instructions

A foot sprain occurs when you stretch or tear the ligaments around your foot. Ligaments are the tough tissues that connect one bone to another. A sprain can happen when you run, fall, or hit your toe against something. Sprains often happen when you jump or change direction quickly. This may occur when you play basketball, soccer, or other sports.

Most foot sprains will get better with treatment at home.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Walk or put weight on your sprained foot as long as it does not hurt.
• If your doctor gave you a splint or immobilizer, wear it as directed. If you were given crutches, use them as directed.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your foot for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try this every 1 to 2 hours for 3 days when you are awake. Put a thin cloth between the ice pack and your skin. Keep your splint dry.
• After 2 or 3 days, you can try applying heat to the area that hurts. Apply heat for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Put a thin cloth between the heat and your skin. You might also try switching between ice and heat.
• Prop up your foot on a pillow when you ice it or anytime you sit or lie down. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Do any exercises that your doctor or physiotherapist suggests.
• Return to your usual exercise gradually as you feel better.