Rehabilitation Techniques Following an Ankle Fracture

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint. These bones include the tibia, fibula, and talus. The severity of a fracture can range from a small crack in one bone to multiple breaks that displace the ankle joint. Following a medical evaluation and initial treatment, a structured rehabilitation plan is typically recommended to support the recovery process. Here’s information on ankle fracture rehabilitation techniques to help restore function and mobility:

Wear Orthotics

Orthotics are devices placed inside footwear to support proper alignment and help manage load distribution across the foot and ankle. They are crafted from various materials and can be custom-made or purchased over the counter. For ankle injuries, orthotics help provide additional stability within a shoe, and they may assist in controlling motion during walking.

The purpose of orthotics is to support the foot’s structure, which can be beneficial during recovery when normal function is compromised. Some possible causes of an ankle fracture are:

Falls
Sports Injuries
Trips or Missteps
Car Accident Injuries
High-load Twisting Ankle Motions
Repetitive Stress

Introduce Exercises

A gradual introduction of exercises is a common part of ankle rehabilitation. These movements help restore mobility and strength to the affected joint and surrounding muscles. Progress should be based on individual conditions and needs with professional guidance.

Improving Range of Motion

These exercises focus on regaining the ankle’s ability to move through its natural planes of motion. You can start with simple exercises at home. A common flexibility exercise for the ankles is the alphabet method. This is where you trace the letters of the alphabet in the air with your big toe, moving your entire foot and ankle as you spell. Another option is a towel stretch, performed by sitting with your leg extended and gently pulling a towel looped around the ball of your foot. These stretches can be combined into drills that are performed in 1-2 sets for daily stretches.

Increasing Strength and Balance

After a foundation of mobility is established, exercises for strength and balance can be incorporated. Working with a physical therapist during ankle rehabilitation is fundamental for a safe and effective recovery. Physical therapists provide hands-on guidance, as they monitor your progress and adjust your regimen to prevent setbacks or additional injuries. They also educate you on proper techniques and strategies to reduce the risk of re-injury in the future.

By collaborating with a physical therapist, you gain access to expert knowledge and evidence-based practices that contribute to a more comprehensive recovery plan. Some strength-building exercises for ankle injuries may include seated calf raises, where you lift your heels while keeping your toes on the floor. These may be used instead of standing calf raises until your ankle strength can handle more weight. Some other strengthening and balancing exercises may include:

Tandem Walks: Where one foot is placed directly in front of the other.
Single Leg Stances: Where you balance on one slightly bent leg and hold it.
Forward Reach Leg Stances: Where you do single leg stance stretches, but reach forward with the arm that isn’t holding the lifted leg.

Prevent Further Injury

Taking steps to prevent further injury is a key aspect of recovery. Adherence to professional advice provides a structured framework for a safe return to daily life activities. Pay close attention to symptoms like swelling, stiffness, or discomfort, and adjust your activity levels accordingly. Be mindful of the surfaces you walk on, aiming for flat and stable ground, and choose supportive footwear that fits well. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your activities, referring to your physical therapy sessions for proper form.

Learn More About Ankle Fracture Treatments

A comprehensive recovery plan involves a multifaceted approach. Orthotics provide structural support, a careful exercise progression helps restore function, and preventive practices reduce the risk of re-injury. For a treatment plan tailored to your condition and needs, contact a podiatrist today to schedule a consultation.