hiking with ankle splints

[Nanc]

I went to the orthopod today expecting to get help with ways to train smartly with my ankle issue.
.
unfortunately what I got was an apologetic - don't recommend you do this period. and if you do, you will be taking years off the functionality of the ankle and the pain is unavoidable

so I am working on the mindset that will enable me to finish what I have started. Accept pain is inevitable and move on.
Choose my Camino now because I am called, and for now, I accept the anticipated future price. (though I have yet to accept an outcome that hasn't arrived yet)

I have 6 months before my September CF to work this through

My ankle had a comminuted fracture 10 years ago, plated, plate removed- it is giving me trouble as I crank up miles.
The doc sent me off with a lace up splint and NSAID cream since I can't take those orally. I also have access to a cold laser.

Has any one hiked the camino with an ankle splint? obviously I am worried about rubbing and blisters

thanks Nanc

 

[James R B]

I've said it before and I'll say it again.Remember the story about the Tortoise and the Hare?Slow and steady wins the race.If this is something you need to do please be careful.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Has any one hiked the camino with an ankle splint?

Yes, sometimes on both ankles. I use the lace-up type with plastic side supports (Swede-O Ankle Lok). You do have to adjust boot lacing when you have created a pressure point from the laces on the brace. Otherwise, I have not had boot fit problems. Test any product you acquire before going on the Camino! The Camino is the wrong place to discover new things about boot fit.

 

[Physio_pilgrim]

Hi Nanc

sorry to hear about your ankle. As a physiotherapist I've seen plenty of ankle fractures and suffice to say they are not the easiest joint to rehab. BUT I've got to say I've seen great improvements in people who have come to physio in terms of reduced pain, improved strength and stability. If you could, it would be worthwhile booking into a local physiotherapist to help strengthen the ankle further, the stronger the muscles surrounding the ankle, the less direct pressure going the joint. It would also be worthwhile strengthening the knees and hips as this will also help to decrease the load in your ankle.

As for an ankle brace, I personally think that if you don't feel unstable you don't need a rigid splint. The issue with a rigid splint is its often bulky, can cause skin issues with rubbing if worn for long distances and it may mean you having to purchase a shoe slightly larger to fit it in comfortably. If its more pain/swelling a compression splint may be enough to help you through.

Hope that helps

Good luck & Bueno Camino!

 

[Nanc]

thanks Physio- all good helpful comments- and yes, strengthening the muscle to take the load of the ligaments and tendons is sound advice AND do-able. Getting a second opinion as where the pain is doesn't seem to relate to the current diagnosis
Nanc