What to Do After an Ankle Injury
First aid with RICE, when to seek care, and what to expect at urgent care.
Ankle twists and rolls are common. Early care can reduce pain and swelling while you decide if medical evaluation is needed.
Immediate steps: Rest — avoid activities that increase pain. Ice 15–20 minutes at a time. Compression with an elastic wrap. Elevation above heart level when possible.
Avoid: Heat on acute injuries, running through significant pain, and bearing full weight if it causes sharp pain.
Seek care if: You cannot bear weight, have significant swelling or bruising within hours, or pain is not improving after 2–3 days.
At urgent care: Exam, possible X-ray, bracing or splinting, and activity guidance.
Recovery: Mild sprains may improve in 1–3 weeks. Follow provider instructions on weight-bearing and return to sport.
Related guides
Related conditions & symptoms
Related services
- Flu & Strep Testing If you suspect you have Strep Throat, our medical practice at NeuMed Modern Urgent Care is here to help. Our trained providers near you provides strep throat testing and results in less than 30 minutes.
- Pediatric Urgent Care When your child is sick or injured, every minute feels like an hour. At NeuMed Modern Urgent Care + IV Therapy, we understand that you need fast, compassionate care without the chaos of the emergency room. Our pediatric urgent care services combine the efficiency of modern medicine with the warmth your little one deser
- Cold & Flu Having the cold or flu can leave you not feeling well. We at NeuMed strive to get you better fast.
Find a NeuMed clinic
Walk-ins welcome at five Houston locations, open seven days a week.
