How To Help a Senior With a Sprained Ankle?
Seniors who live on their own and want to age in place are at risk of hurting themselves. As your parents age, their needs become different than when they were younger. They may not move like they used to, their sight may not be what it once was, and they may not hear things anymore. This can make it dangerous to live on their own without help. You may not be able to get to your parents every day and may not have space to move them in. That’s okay, there are options for your family. Senior home care can stay with your parents to help them do daily activities and age in place without danger.
This means senior home care can help a senior maintain clear pathways to avoid things like sprains and breaks. If an emergency like a sprain or a break does happen, senior home care can help a senior get to the hospital or call 911 quickly. This takes the stress off you and allows your seniors to age comfortably in their own homes. Most caregivers will be able to help with a sprain, but if you’re taking care of your parents, you should know what a sprain is and how to help your parents take care of it.
What Is a Sprain?
Senior Home Care Arlington, VA: Seniors and Sprained Ankles
A sprained or fractured ankle is a common occurrence. Swollen and inflamed feet are a sign of a severe ankle sprain, not a simple ankle twist. This indicates that the ligaments in your ankle have been strained and maybe torn. Ankle sprains are frequent, but that doesn’t mean they’re always small. Joint discomfort and weakness may persist for a long time in those with frequent or severe sprains. Treating a sprained ankle is a good way to avoid future ankle issues.
How Does a Sprain Happen?
Ankle sprains often occur due to a sudden change in foot position, such as while playing soccer or being tackled in football. The ankle may roll outward, and the foot may bend inside. Often, this occurs. Ankle ligaments on the outside are stretched and torn as a result.
As with any injury, the severity of an ankle sprain depends on the extent of the ligament damage and the number of ligaments that have been injured. The ankle may be sore, swollen, and stiff after a moderate sprain. However, it is typically steady, and you may walk without too much discomfort. Bruising and discomfort around the ankle are common symptoms of a more severe sprain. Severe ankle sprains provide an unstable and “wobbly” sensation. A sprained ankle makes it impossible to walk and may be quite painful.
How To Treat a Sprain?
Once your senior has been x-rayed and you know that this is a sprain, you need to take the proper actions to ensure it heals. Firstly, seniors need to rest. They should not be walking on it or trying to be super active; sometimes, crutches are necessary to stay off it. If there is severe swelling, the seniors will need to keep it iced. Senior home care providers can help a senior keep the sprain wrapped up and compressed. Lastly, the sprain will need to be elevated to heal.