RICE stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Anti-inflammatories are also an important part of the healing process. Rest, in terms of ankle rehabilitation and management, means avoiding activities that cause pain or discomfort. With a severe sprain, ankle immobilization may even be necessary. This is done either with a cast or a brace.
Ice helps reduce pain and swelling and promotes healing.
Ice should be used in place of heat as long as swelling persists. Ice should be applied for 20 minutes on then 40 minutes off either every hour or several times a day, depending on the extent of the swelling. Ice should not be applied directly to the skin. A pillowcase or a T-shirt or over two wraps of the ACE bandage are a good thickness between the ice and the skin. Compression is used to support and immobilize the ankle.