Stop activity and rest the ankle immediately
Elevate the ankle above heart level as much as possible
Apply an ice pack for 15–20 minutes at a time
Repeat ice every 2–3 hours overnight
Use a compression wrap or elastic bandage snugly (not tight enough to cause numbness or color change)
Keep the ankle immobilized and limit walking; use crutches if available
If pain is significant, consider an over-the-counter pain reliever if safe for you
Check for swelling reduction and improved comfort before putting weight on it
Avoid heat, massage, alcohol, and hot baths overnight
Avoid stretching or aggressive range-of-motion exercises overnight
Use a supportive brace or ankle wrap if you have one
Seek urgent care if you cannot bear weight, you have severe swelling/bruising, deformity, numbness/tingling, worsening pain, or symptoms after a high-impact injury
Seek urgent care if there’s an open wound or signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever)