Question

What is the primary purpose of elevating an sprained ankle?

Answer 1

To reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.

Explanation:

Elevating the foot after an ankle sprain helps to reduce blood flow to the area, thus reducing the possibility of inflammation and swelling, which would also increase the pain.

If the foot were to be kept down, the blood flow would increase inflammation and swelling, thus increasing the pain.

When swelling is reduced or minimised, healing is faster.