Homeopathic Remedies for a Sprained Ankle

This last Sunday while leaving work, I accidentally slipped down some stairs and sprained my ankle pretty badly. Besides this just sucking all together, it especially sucks since I'm a new business owner and I fully and completely rely on myself to pay the bills. Besides that, I'm fully booked for the next three weeks, so I was really hoping it wasn't anything major that would inhibit me from working. Luckily for me, it's just a good old-fashioned sprained ankle.

As some of you may know, sprained ankles and other similar injuries are actually far worse than a broken bone. Why, you ask? Well when you sprain your ankle, often times you roll out to the sides. This causes the tendons and ligaments to overlengthen, which cannot easily be undone, if ever at all. That means that you're even more prone to rolled or sprained ankles because your ankles are weak.

So, in lieu of my recent ankle injury, here are some excellent strengthening exercises you can do on your own to strengthen your ankles to prevent future sprained ankles, and to give your ankles more stability. I've also included some homeopathic remedies that have been known to aid the healing process of sprained ankles and get you back on the path to being active!

Foot & Ankle Exercises

This video can be used for a variety of conditions including a sprained/strained ankle, plantar fasciitis, or just general foot and ankle strengthening.

Homeopathic Remedies

R.I.C.E.

R.I.C.E. stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, all of which you should do after most injuries, but definitely including sprains and strains.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is one of the world's true wonders. It can also be used topically as well as internally. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and healing effects and can be used for a variety of mallodies including sprains, strains, flesh wounds, sunburns, etcetera. For more information on how aloe vera can help with injuries, visit: http://www.aloeveradamadeira.com/aloe-vera-and-sports-injuries/.

Roman Chamomile

This essential oil works in many different ways, but in regards to an ankle sprain, it works as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, relaxant, and analgesic. This means that the muscles and nerves surrounding your sprain will calm down with the use of this and pain will decrease without having to take pain pills.

Arnica

Arnica, used topically, is great for reducing pain, inflammation, swelling, and decreases the appearance of bruising. Be careful not to use this on any open wounds though!

Lemongrass

Lemongrass not only smells great, but it has traditionally been used as an analgesic, antiseptic, astringent, anti-bacterial, and fungicidal essential oil. It helps to reduce pain and and also aids in the regeneration of connective tissues and ligaments, crucial for sprains, strains, and torn ligaments and tendons.

Epsom Salt

What a magical salt. Can this salt be any better? Epsom salt can be used for so many things, and ankle sprains/strains are definitely one of them. Use about 2 cups in your bath, and add in some essential oils to enhance your benefits! Epsom salt contains magnesium which is then absorbed through the skin. The salt along with the warm water helps release tension and sooth sore, tired muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Just make sure the water isn't too warm, especially if it's a fresh sprain and you still have a good amount of localized swelling.

For a good post-sprain bath: