Walking is a daily routine activity. The ankle is a strong joint that carries your full body weight, but when bones, tendons, or ligaments become weak, inflamed, or injured, the pain starts. With a fracture, it can become uncomfortable and tiring when ankle pain lingers during the recovery process. If you understand the reasons for ankle pain while walking, you can take early steps to care for your joint, protect it from further damage and risk of re-injuries, and stay freely mobile.
Incorporating simple lifestyle changes and using the right orthopedic support can help relieve discomfort, provide stability, and protect your ankles during daily activities. Among the best orthopedic supports, consider Leeford Ortho Ankle Binder or Ankle Binder with Splint.
In this blog, we discuss these questions:
- How long does it take to recover from an ankle fracture?
- When can I start walking after an ankle fracture?
- What exercises should I do after my cast is removed?
- Can I drive after an ankle fracture?
- Why is my ankle still swollen months after a fracture?
How long does it take to recover from an ankle fracture?
There are several factors that influence recovery time, including:
- Severity of the fracture
- Need for surgery
- Age
- Overall health
- Lifestyle or activity level
- Physical therapy
Also, ankle fracture healing time differs, and here’s how:
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Minor fracture: 1-6 weeks. The initial period is for bone healing. You will likely be in a cast, and weight-bearing is typically restricted.
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Partial fracture: 6-12 weeks. After cast removal, your ankle will likely be stiff and weak. You can begin a gradual return to weight-bearing, starting with light exercises and rehabilitation.
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Severe fracture: 3-4 months or more. A return to most normal daily activities can occur during this time. However, full strength and stability, especially for high-impact sports, may take several months or even up to a year. Stiffness and swelling can linger for a while.
When can I start walking after an ankle fracture?
You can start walking after any ankle fracture in 6-10 weeks, but the exact time depends on the severity of the fracture and whether you had surgery, as well as your healing progress. It's crucial to wait until your doctor gives you the go-ahead, as putting weight on the ankle too soon can lead to improper bone healing. You will gradually begin to put weight on the ankle as advised by your healthcare provider/physiotherapist.
What exercises should I do after my cast is removed?
After a cast is removed, begin with gentle range-of-motion exercises like wrist circles and finger bends to reduce stiffness, followed by strengthening exercises. Gradually incorporate functional activity and weight-bearing exercises to regain strength and coordination. Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Important considerations
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Let your body guide you: It is normal to feel some stiffness or discomfort, but you should not experience sharp pain. If an exercise causes increased pain that lasts more than 24 hours, reduce the intensity.
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Consider a healthcare expert's advice: Your doctor/physical therapist can provide personalized exercises and guidance to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
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Avoid high-impact activities: Stay away from high-impact sports and activities for at least four to six weeks after cast removal to allow the bone to fully heal.
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Wear supportive shoes: Use supportive shoes or an orthopedic brace as recommended by your healthcare provider when walking or exercising to provide stability and protection.
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Monitor for warning signs: Seek medical help if you experience severe or constant pain, increased swelling, redness, numbness, or tingling in your foot/leg.
Can I drive after an ankle fracture?
Your doctor's assessment is the most important factor. They will determine if you are ready based on your healing, strength, and stability. On the other hand, it's crucial to be physically ready before driving. You should not drive if you are still experiencing significant pain, are not sleeping well, or feel unsteady.
Wait until you are no longer wearing a cast, and practice driving in a safe, controlled environment if possible, after your doctor says it's okay. Make sure you can confidently and comfortably operate the pedals without pain or difficulty. You can consider wearing Leeford Ortho Ankle Binder with Splint while driving. This protects your ankle fracture from developing a new fracture or recovering slowly.
Why is my ankle still swollen months after a fracture?
This is one of the common concerns; however, during a broken ankle recovery, there are natural and potential causes of swelling. These include:
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Continued healing: Swelling is a natural part of the healing process and can take a long time to go away, sometimes up to a year or more, even after the fracture itself has healed.
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Post-traumatic arthritis: Ankle fractures can lead to arthritis in the joints, which can cause persistent pain and swelling.
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Increased activity: Swelling can increase when you increase your activity level or weight-bearing on the ankle, even if you are following your physical therapist's guidance.
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Poor blood circulation: This can be caused by various factors, including immobility or certain medical conditions.
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Damage to ligaments: Sprains that occur during the fracture or in subsequent activities can also cause swelling.
Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the right cause of your swelling and to follow effective ways to manage swelling.
Final Thoughts
When you understand the reasons behind ankle pain while walking or playing, it helps you take better care of your feet. So, one should focus on ankle fracture recovery tips, like doing simple and effective exercises and choosing the right footwear to prevent further ankle twisting and injuries. Apart from this, living a healthy lifestyle keeps your joints in good shape and injury-free.
Also, pairing it with protectors, like Leeford Ortho Ankle Support can shield your fractured ankle and prevent further injury, as well as enhance quicker recovery. Always pay attention to pain symptoms, and don’t force yourself to walk through pain and discomfort. By following the ankle fracture do’s and don’ts, you can continue moving freely and confidently, and pain-free, every single day.
