There's a balance. Excessive inflammation pushes joints and ligaments out of position. However, it's the way the body brings fluids to heal the injury.

Manage it, don't let it go wild, and don't try to drug/compress/ice it into oblivion and make it last longer.

Currently have my moderately sprained ankle elevated. This is the worst sprain I've had in 20 years, so taking it really easy.