YOU SPRAIN YOUR ANKLE ON YOUR OWN Bugger!

HOW THE HELL DID THAT HAPPEN? Usually either fatigue, walking on wet ground or rocks, or a dodgy landing from a jump. There’s loads of possible reasons – it’s one of the most common mountain injuries.

WHAT DO I DO NEXT? Nothing at first. Let the initial pain subside, catch your breath and get into a more comfortable, sheltered position. Put on a warm layer and sit on your bag to insulate your bum from the ground.

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY FOOT? Elevate and immobilise it. Be very careful – there is the possibility of a fracture, so treat it as though this is the case.

WHAT AM I LOOKING FOR?

Check CSMS. That’s circulation, sensation, movement, strength. Has the injured area become pale, or blue and cold? Are there any tingling or numb sensations? How is your range of movement? How much (if any) weight can you bear? Check for swelling.

IT’S AS BIG AS A GRAPEFRUIT

Cold treatment will help. Dip a buff or bandage in cold water and wrap it around the ankle, rewetting periodically to keep the temperature down. Get some painkillers down you.

I THINK I CAN WALK IT OFF... Really? Can you walk four steps? If not, treat this as a fracture and call Mountain Rescue. It’s why they’re here. If you really think you can, strap it up, splint it if you can, and go very carefully.