Many patients develop post-fracture deformity of a toe, which in turn results in the formation of a painfully deformed digit with a most painful corn. More swelling means greater pressure on the nerves, which causes more pain. An ice bag wrapped in a towel has a contracting effect on blood vessels, produces a numbing effect, and prevents swelling and pain. Later, possibly 48 or 72 hours, warm compresses or soaks can be used. The application of an elastic bandage to a severely sprained ankle is adequate treatment.
Ankle sprains often mean torn or severely overstretched ligaments.
Surgery may also be necessary. Therefore, an elastic bandage by itself may not prove to be adequate treatment. Both are proper terms in describing a broken bone. Therefore a fracture is not any better than a broken bone. . About Dr. Marcus Recommended Book List .