How to Climb With an Ankle Injury

Ankle injuries, from sprains to pulled tendons, can make just walking difficult. Climbing can be painful and make the injury worse if you don't do it correctly. Treat the ankle injury before you attempt to climb the stairs, a hill or a mountain.

Instructions

• 1

  Get treatment for the ankle injury immediately. See a doctor and get an x-ray, to determine if the ankle is sprained or broken. Immediate treatment for the injury will include elevating the foot to reduce swelling, pain medication or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and rest.

• 2

  Wrap the foot and ankle. Wrapping keeps the injury stable when you walk, and reduces pain. Follow the orders of your doctor. Most doctors recommend unwrapping the foot for periods so that circulation isn't impeded. Make sure your foot and ankle are wrapped when you're ready to climb.

• 3

  Climb up by leading off with your good, or uninjured, foot. Always place the good foot first when going uphill to reduce the strain on your leg and ankle. When going down stairs, a hill or a mountain, always put your bad foot down first. This helps you to control the movements and puts less stress on your injury. Remember that up is good and down is bad.