Final answer:
An elastic bandage on a sprained ankle helps reduce swelling, provides support, and offers some immobilization but is not as effective as a cast for full immobilization. Its use is part of the RICE technique, which additionally includes Rest, Ice, and Elevation. Severe cases may require surgery, and bandaging does not prevent infection in the presence of open wounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
An elastic bandage is a commonly recommended treatment for a sprained ankle, as it provides compression that helps reduce edema (or swelling) and offers support to the injured area. While it does provide some immobilization, it is not as effective as a brace or cast for completely restricting movement. The primary benefits of using an elastic bandage in treatment following the RICE technique are to assist in minimizing swelling and providing support, helping to prevent further injury during the healing process.
The RICE technique stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, all of which are important in the treatment of soft tissue injuries like sprains. For more severe ankle injuries that involve ligament tears or bone fractures, additional medical interventions, including surgery, may be necessary to properly heal the injury.
Applying a compressive bandage does not prevent infection, and monitoring for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, and pain is essential, particularly if open wounds are present. However, in a simple sprain where the skin is not broken, infection is not typically a concern associated with the use of an elastic bandage.