The ankle will still ache, but the compress draws out the inflammation and allows blood to circulate and heal the ankle. If the sprain turns a yellowish this means the sprain is in the process of healing. Some physicians may routinely apply a cast to a second-or third degree sprain for a week or longer to ensure proper repair. Other physicians will apply a tape support to the sprain and instruct the dancer to engage in no weight bearing for 2 to 3 days. You have to stop dancing, treat the ankle and rest.
Joint immobilization assures a speedy recovery.
This is often followed by a program of physical therapy. Strapping is the best preventive procedure, because as in all sprains, once ligaments of the ankle have been stretched, exercise cannot restore joint and stability. Ankle strapping provides mild support to the ankle joint and still allows for foot and ankle mobility. Another technique used by itself or with ankle strapping is application of an adhesive felt horseshoe. This can be used with the chronically swollen ankle.