How do you best treat a turned ankle in the back country?

Question

Possibly the most common injury I see when hiking with groups is when someone turns or rolls their ankle. Assuming that access to a vehicle is not feasible, what is the best way to deal with the injury to make it several miles out without causing further damage to the joint?

Answer 1

There are relatively well known steps to dealing with this out in the wilds. One online resource with pictures is at Backpacker Magazine.

The basic steps (that are detailed there) are:

• Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation (which you should do with any sprain, wherever you are)
• Bandage reasonably tightly - not so tight that you cut off circulation, but tight enough that you restrict swelling and support the ankle. A visual check to make sure the toes aren't turning blue is essential, especially in a very cold environment!
• Pad the ankle - a scarf, t-shirt or other material helps to make sure the ankle bones are protected.
• While you can use a branch, a much better option, and the one Backpacker Magazine recommends, is to use a foam sleeping mat as a splint, as it provides support and some impact protection. You can fold it in half, place it down one side of the leg, under the foot and up the other side. If it is too big, cut it - you can always buy another one once you get home. Use your usual mat ties or straps to hold it tight.
• Once you have got it secure and the ankle is immobilised without it being too tight, and you are confident that it won't be damaged further, take ibuprofen to help kill the pain and reduce inflammation.
• Support the individual and slowly walk back to civilisation.