The amount of rest needed depends on the severity of the injury. Rest may mean avoiding all use of the injured part, or simply adapting your activities to use the injured part less strenuously. A serious sprain may require a cast to prevent use and allow complete healing. Using ice on the injury is especially important in the first 24 hours. Apply the ice for 10 to 15 minutes, four or five times per day.
Compression means wrapping the injured area with a cloth bandage.
The bandage should be loose enough to slip two fingers under it. If you notice an increase in pain, unwrap the bandage, and check for skin indentations that might indicate it was wrapped too tight.