Aircast Ankle Braces for Fracture Recovery: Key Insights

Pneumatic ankle brace for bone fractures

Hello, Doctor.
On January 7th, I accidentally fell down the stairs and had an X-ray taken.
The doctor said I have a fracture in my ankle, but surgery is not necessary.
I need to wear a cast for two weeks, after which it will be changed to a lighter cast for another four weeks.
A friend lent me a "pneumatic ankle brace" (I'm not sure if that's the correct name), and the doctor approved its use.
However, the doctor said I shouldn't take it off, as it is equivalent to a cast.
This is quite uncomfortable for me, as my foot gets sweaty and feels stuffy.
Can I take off this brace daily to shower without affecting the healing of the fracture? Additionally, I originally planned to travel from February 12th to February 17th.
Since it will be about a month after the injury, if I don't use crutches or the pneumatic ankle brace and just walk slowly, will that have any consequences? Why do some people get to use crutches and walk slowly after a month of a fracture, while my doctor says I need to use crutches for three months and cannot put weight on my foot?

rosie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/30

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics

Hello, an ankle fracture can be stabilized using a pneumatic ankle brace.
Since your fracture has been present for 23 days, you can remove the brace for showering, but you should not put weight on it, as this will not affect the healing of the bone.
In principle, you should avoid weight-bearing on the ankle fracture for at least 6 weeks.
After that, the decision to stop using crutches and the pneumatic ankle brace will depend on the degree of healing observed in the X-rays.
Therefore, it is still recommended that you wear the pneumatic ankle brace and use crutches during your trip abroad.

Reply Date: 2019/01/30

More Info

When recovering from an ankle fracture, particularly one that requires the use of an Aircast ankle brace, it is essential to understand the purpose and function of the brace, as well as the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider. Here are some key insights regarding your situation:
1. Purpose of the Aircast Ankle Brace: The Aircast ankle brace is designed to provide support and stabilization to the injured area. It helps to immobilize the ankle, which is crucial for the healing process. While it may seem more comfortable than a traditional cast, it serves a similar purpose in preventing movement that could disrupt the healing of the fracture.

2. Why Not to Remove the Brace: Your doctor advised against removing the brace because doing so could expose the fracture to unnecessary movement. Even though the brace may feel restrictive and cause discomfort, it is vital for maintaining the alignment of the bones as they heal. The brace is intended to be worn continuously, similar to a cast, to ensure that the fracture site remains stable.

3. Washing and Hygiene: It is understandable that wearing the brace can lead to discomfort, especially with sweating. However, you can typically remove the brace for short periods to clean the area and maintain hygiene, as long as you are careful not to put weight on the injured ankle during that time. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding when and how long you can remove the brace.

4. Traveling and Weight Bearing: Regarding your upcoming travel plans, it is crucial to adhere to your doctor's recommendations about weight-bearing activities. If your doctor has advised that you need to use crutches and avoid putting weight on the injured ankle for three months, it is essential to follow this guidance. Some patients may be able to bear weight sooner, depending on the nature of their fracture and their healing progress, but this varies significantly from person to person.

5. Differences in Recovery: The reason some individuals may be cleared to bear weight sooner than others often relates to the type and severity of the fracture, as well as individual healing rates. Your doctor may have specific concerns about your fracture that necessitate a more cautious approach. It is essential to trust their expertise and follow their recommendations to avoid complications, such as delayed healing or re-injury.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: Once you are cleared to begin weight-bearing activities, it is typically a gradual process. Your healthcare provider will likely recommend a rehabilitation program to strengthen the ankle and restore mobility. This may include physical therapy exercises tailored to your recovery stage.

7. Communication with Your Doctor: If you have concerns about your recovery timeline or the use of the Aircast brace, it is always best to communicate directly with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

In summary, while the Aircast ankle brace may feel uncomfortable, it plays a critical role in your recovery from an ankle fracture. Adhering to your doctor's advice regarding weight-bearing and brace usage is essential for optimal healing. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for clarification and guidance.

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