Outside of ankle/lower leg pain - anyone else?

[Ninja-shark]

I've had to take time off from Couch to 5K twice now (once at Week 2 and now at Week 6), with ankle pain (first in right ankle, now left ankle). First time Dr said it was a sprain, probably due to wearing fashion shoes to run but I don't remember rolling my ankle. This time, had proper shoes, have been doing ankle strength exercises, even had tubi grips on for support and just felt this warm pain bloom up my ankle. The bony bit of my ankle is really tender and when I walk too far it aches up the side of my leg.

Has anyone else had this? Do you know what it is and how I can prevent it? I'm now not convinced it's a sprain... I'm so frustrated, I just want to get to graduate!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

Sprains or even lightly turned ankles can take quite some time to recover.........I was not running for about a month last time I very lightly turned mine. This is largely due to the relatively poor blood supply to ankles, so keeping them active by cycling or similar non weight bearing exercise can be a good way to speed recovery. Starting to run again too soon may not allow adequate recovery. Patience is a great virtue for an injured runner. As with any recurring injury, it is wise to consult a medical professional and a physio is probably going to be more help than your GP.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Enjoy your journey.

[Ninja-shark in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks so much for taking the time to write such a full answer. Yes, I need to learn patience! And to be honest, it was a physio I had hoped to see at my health centre but they gave me a GP 😆 I'll try again to get a different appointment...