Final answer:
Patients with inversion ankle sprains are often given an ankle brace and encouraged to bear weight immediately to facilitate healing, alongside using the RICE technique.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients with inversion ankle sprains often are given an ankle brace or elastic support and encouraged to bear full weight immediately. An inversion sprain occurs when the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the ligaments on the lateral side of the ankle. The most commonly injured ligaments are the anterior talofibular ligament and the calcaneofibular ligament. When the sprain is severe, it may also involve a fracture of the distal fibula.
In contrast, a Pott's fracture, which involves the deltoid ligament and can include a dislocation of the ankle joint, is a more serious injury and may require different treatment. For common ankle sprains, treatment may also be accompanied by the RICE technique, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Severe sprains or fractures may necessitate surgery. Ankle braces and supports help stabilize the joint and facilitate the healing process by allowing for controlled movement and reduced strain on the injured ligaments.