ankle injury
The first symptoms appear immediately after an ankle sprain. Putting weight on the affected foot or moving it is usually possible only with pain. The joint swells rapidly, bruising (hematomas) often develops, and the injured area is extremely tender to the touch. The affected ankle should be immobilized, cooled, and elevated immediately. A compression bandage reduces the extent of the swelling and ensures that the injured tissues are not subjected to further strain prior to treatment.