In treating an acute ankle sprain with intermittent compression, what modification should be made if the patient reports discomfort after five minutes?

When treating an acute ankle sprain with intermittent compression, if a patient reports discomfort after five minutes, it is important to adjust the treatment to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. Increasing the off time is the correct modification in this situation.

The purpose of intermittent compression is to promote venous return and decrease swelling in the injured area. If the patient feels discomfort, this could indicate that the compression is too intense or prolonged, which may lead to discomfort or even impede blood flow. By increasing the off time, the patient is given a longer period without compression, allowing for relief and reducing the risk of tissue damage.

Modifying the inflation pressure or increasing the total treatment time may exacerbate discomfort rather than alleviate it. Elevating the leg can be beneficial for reducing swelling, but in this specific scenario focusing on the compression adjustment is more appropriate. Therefore, adjusting the treatment protocol to enhance patient comfort is crucial, making an increase in off time the best course of action.