Pediatric Ankle Brace

What to Do If Your Child Rolls Their Ankle?

Ankle injuries are a common occurrence among children, especially those who are active in sports or physical activities. When a child rolls their ankle, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your child experiences this type of injury.

Step 1: Assess the Injury

The first step is to determine the severity of the ankle injury. If your child is unable to walk, exhibits significant swelling, or if there’s a visible deformity, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. For mild cases where your child can still bear weight, you can manage the injury at home.

Step 2: Apply the RICE Method

The RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—is a widely recommended approach for treating minor sprains:

- Rest: Encourage your child to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle. Limiting movement helps prevent further damage.
  
- Ice: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth to the affected ankle for 15-20 minutes every hour. This reduces swelling and numbs the pain.

- Compression: Use an elastic bandage to wrap the ankle snugly but not too tightly. This helps minimize swelling but should not cut off circulation.

- Elevation: Encourage your child to keep the injured ankle elevated above the level of the heart. This helps decrease swelling by facilitating fluid drainage.

Step 3: Consider a Pediatric Ankle Brace

A pediatric ankle brace can provide support and stability during the healing process. Braces help to immobilize the ankle while allowing for controlled movement, which can speed up recovery. When searching for a brace, ensure that it is specifically designed for children, as pediatric ankle braces are made to accommodate their smaller anatomy and different activity needs. It’s vital to fit the brace properly to ensure comfort and effectiveness.

Step 4: Gradual Return to Activity

After a few days of rest and if the pain subsides, your child can gradually resume their activities. Start with gentle range-of-motion exercises and slowly increase intensity as tolerated. Taking gentle steps back into physical activity can help regain strength without risking re-injury.

Step 5: Seek Professional Medical Advice

If your child’s symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they worsen, consult a healthcare professional. A doctor may recommend physical therapy or further examination, such as an X-ray, to rule out fractures.

Rolling an ankle can be painful and inconvenient, but with prompt and proper care, most children recover quickly. Using methods like RICE and incorporating a pediatric ankle brace will facilitate healing while keeping your child comfortable.