Bad Ankle

bethkennedy24

I had surgery on my leg/ankle a couple of years ago and now have a plate and a few screws in it. I've tried keeping my exercises low impact, but even doing the elliptical machine and treadmill really bother it. Any suggestions?

FixItDuck

Cycling or swimming. What about some hill walking?

adamon04

Have you tried wrapping your ankle in an Ace bandage? That might help somewhat ...help to keep it stable. I don't have a plate or screws in my ankle, but I have a condition in my foot that makes my ankle weak, so I can relate a little bit. I use the type of bandage that velcro's around my foot and ankle, and it's made a huge difference. I'm not sure what kind of sneaker you wear, but crosstrainers are great for walking, aerobics and cardio equipment. I hope things get better for you. Try not to push yourself too hard, especially if it hurts. Good luck!

ariant23

I too have bad ankles (though no metallic hardware), and I love SOME elliptical machines. Others are TERRIBLE. Have you tried out all the different ones at your gym? Maybe keep it at the lowest incline, should reduce extension/flexion (or whatever it's called from point to flex).

Swimming is def. good. It's the only form of cardio I really enjoy. plus you get inherent weight-bearing bonuses (water resistance), and you can do all sorts of stuff to make it more interesting.

I'd ask your orthopedist about braces / support if you can.

LilGiselle21

I have a weak left ankle I wear a brace whenever I workout. I don't run on the treadmill just walk. I do a lot of Zumba and here and there the pain gets bad. Massage a lot. But def notice a difference when not using the ace bandage.

bethkennedy24

Thanks guys, I haven't tried using a bandage yet - hopefully that will make the difference for me too! I want to try out those kind of shoes too, mine are just basic running shoes I think.