On a morning in late December, the Xincun crew of Fengtai First-aid Sub-center received an emergency call about an elderly person who had fallen and sprained their ankle at home, requiring urgent transportation. The team immediately headed to the scene. During the journey, the doctor contacted the family by phone to communicate the patient's condition and provided medical guidance, advising the patient to remain still and not walk, rub, or rotate the injured joint to avoid aggravating the injury. The doctor also recommended applying a cold compress with a towel or cloth wrapped around ice to reduce swelling and pain. Upon arrival, the doctor performed a physical examination and treatment before promptly transferring the patient to the nearest hospital for further care.

This serves as a reminder that winter often brings slippery roads due to snow, and elderly people should wear non-slip shoes. If a sprain or similar injury occurs, it is necessary to take some first-aid measures (while also seeking medical care to avoid delays in treatment).

1. Stop Activity Immediately: Prevent further injury by halting any movement.  

2. Cold Compress: Within 48 hours of the sprain, the soft tissue in the injured area tends to swell. Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling, ideally every 2-3 hours for 20-30 minutes each time. It’s best to wrap the cold compress in a towel to prevent frostbite.  

3. Pressure: Use a bandage or elastic wrap to lightly dress the sprained area. This will help reduce swelling and provide support. Be sure not to wrap it too tightly as it could restrict blood flow.  

4. Elevation: Raise the injured area to help alleviate swelling. For an ankle sprain, elevate the foot on a cushion or pillow.  

5. Heat After 48 Hours: If pain and swelling have subsided, and the body has started to absorb the earlier swelling after 48 hours, you can switch to heat therapy. This will promote blood circulation and speed up the reduction of swelling. Apply heat for 15-20 minutes per session, 2-3 times per day.  

6. Rest and Gradual Movement: In the initial stage, rest the injured area to avoid overuse. However, as symptoms improve, gently begin light movements to encourage recovery.  

For severe sprains, particularly if pain persists or if other serious symptoms occur (such as noticeable deformity, inability to bear weight, or signs of a fracture), it is advisable to call 120 or seek medical attention promptly to receive proper treatment and rehabilitation guidance.