A sprained ankle can be painful and inconvenient, but knowing how to wrap it properly can provide relief and support during the healing process. Follow these 14 steps to effectively wrap a sprained ankle and ensure a speedy recovery.

1. Gather your supplies: You will need an elastic bandage, scissors, and adhesive tape.

2. Elevate your foot: Sit down with your leg outstretched and the injured foot elevated on a pillow or cushion. This will reduce swelling and make it easier to wrap your ankle.

3. Inspect the injury: Check for any cuts, bruises, or obvious deformities before you begin wrapping.

4. Clean and dry the area: If there are any open wounds, clean them with mild soap and water, then pat dry with a clean towel.

5. Start at the base of your toes: Unroll the elastic bandage and wrap it around the ball of your foot a few times to anchor it in place.

6. Move up to the arch: Continue wrapping in a diagonal pattern, overlapping each layer by about half its width. Cover the entire arch of your foot.

7. Wrap around the heel: Once you reach the top of the arch, loop the bandage around your ankle bone and pull it back toward your heel.

8. Secure the bandage with adhesive tape: After wrapping around the heel, secure the end of the bandage with adhesive tape to keep it in place.

9. Create a figure-eight pattern: Starting near your toes again, wrap diagonally up and over your instep, then circle around your ankle bone and back down under your heel before looping back up over your instep again.

10. Repeat this figure-eight two or three times: This will provide additional support for your injured ankle.

11. Finish by wrapping horizontally: After completing the figure-eight pattern several times, wrap the bandage around your ankle several times to finish securing it.

12. Secure the end of the bandage: Use more adhesive tape to hold the end of the bandage in place.

13. Check the tightness: The bandage should be snug but not too tight. You should be able to insert two fingers between the bandage and your skin. If it’s too tight, loosen and rewrap as necessary.

14. Change regularly: Make sure to change the bandage daily or as needed, checking for signs of infection or increased swelling. Contact your doctor if you notice any worsening symptoms or if your ankle does not improve within a few days.

By following these steps, you can effectively wrap a sprained ankle and provide much-needed support during the healing process. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about how to treat your injury or if you have any concerns about its severity.