Recovering from Ankle Surgery: Rehabilitation Tips and Expectations

Ankle joint injury, ankle sprain, postoperative issues?

Hello Doctor: I underwent ankle arthroscopy on August 6 of last year due to a torn ligament, which was repaired during the surgery.
The doctor also mentioned that debris in the joint was removed.
About a month and a half later, the doctor advised me to start running and jumping rope, and I did not undergo any other physical therapy during that time.
As of early February, I have started physical therapy, but after three weeks, it seems there has been little progress, and my joint mobility is quite limited.
I would like to ask if cases like mine, starting physical therapy six months post-surgery, can still recover to normal function, or if the delay means I need to undergo another arthroscopy to address adhesions and then follow up with physical therapy? Are there similar cases or recommendations you could provide for reference? After the initial surgery, it took me about a month and a half to start walking.
If I were to undergo another arthroscopy, would combining it with physical therapy lead to a faster recovery of normal mobility? Thank you, Doctor.

Xiao Ming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/26

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

Recently, are people hesitant to visit hospitals for medical care and prefer online consultations instead? Generally, delaying rehabilitation after the onset of symptoms can lead to poorer outcomes.
In cases of severe adhesions, surgical intervention may indeed be necessary again.
However, each individual's condition is different, and the actual treatment plan varies from person to person.
Please discuss your specific condition with your attending physician to plan the subsequent treatment strategy.

Reply Date: 2020/02/26

More Info

Recovering from ankle surgery, particularly after a procedure involving ligament repair and debris removal, can be a complex process that requires patience and a structured rehabilitation plan. Based on your description, it appears that you underwent arthroscopic surgery to address a torn ligament and to clean out loose fragments from the joint. This type of surgery is often performed to restore stability and function to the ankle, but recovery can vary significantly from person to person.

Rehabilitation Timeline and Expectations
1. Initial Recovery Phase: After surgery, the first few weeks are crucial for healing. It's common to experience swelling and limited range of motion. During this time, the focus is typically on protecting the surgical site, managing pain, and gradually introducing gentle movements as advised by your surgeon.

2. Physical Therapy: Starting physical therapy about six weeks post-surgery is generally recommended, but it sounds like you began therapy around one and a half months after your procedure. Physical therapy is essential for regaining strength, flexibility, and function. If you feel that your progress has stalled after three weeks of therapy, it may be beneficial to discuss this with your physical therapist. They can adjust your rehabilitation program to better suit your needs.

3. Range of Motion and Strength: It’s important to understand that regaining full range of motion and strength can take time, especially if there was significant damage to the ligaments or surrounding tissues. If you are experiencing limited range of motion, your therapist may incorporate specific exercises to target flexibility and strength in the ankle.

4. Surgical Intervention: If you are considering another arthroscopic procedure to address adhesions or scar tissue, this can sometimes be beneficial. However, it’s crucial to weigh the risks and benefits with your orthopedic surgeon. They can evaluate whether the adhesions are significantly impacting your recovery and if a second surgery is warranted.

5. Long-Term Recovery: Many patients can return to normal activities after ankle surgery, but the timeline can vary. Factors such as the extent of the injury, your overall health, adherence to rehabilitation protocols, and the presence of any complications can all influence recovery.

Recommendations
- Consult Your Surgeon: If you have concerns about your progress, it’s essential to communicate with your surgeon. They can provide insights into whether additional surgical intervention is necessary or if your current rehabilitation plan needs adjustment.

- Stay Consistent with Therapy: Consistency is key in rehabilitation. If you feel that your current physical therapy is not yielding results, consider seeking a second opinion or a different therapist who specializes in post-surgical rehabilitation.

- Focus on Home Exercises: In addition to your therapy sessions, performing prescribed exercises at home can enhance your recovery. This may include range-of-motion exercises, strengthening activities, and balance training.

- Patience and Realistic Goals: Recovery from ankle surgery can take several months, and it’s important to set realistic goals. Celebrate small milestones in your recovery, such as improved range of motion or reduced pain levels.

- Consider Cross-Training: If running and jumping are part of your goals, consider low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to maintain cardiovascular fitness while minimizing stress on the ankle.

In conclusion, while it is possible to recover fully from your ankle surgery, the timeline and process can vary. Engaging in a structured rehabilitation program, maintaining open communication with your healthcare providers, and being patient with your recovery will be crucial in achieving your goals. If you have further concerns or specific questions about your case, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team for personalized advice.

Similar Q&A

Effective Rehabilitation Techniques for Post-Ankle Surgery Recovery

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. A month ago, I was in a car accident and had surgery on my ankle, after which I was put in a cast. Since removing the cast, my tendons have become very stiff, and I am unable to properly elevate my ankle joint. My attending physician ...

Dr. Zhou Hongzhi reply Orthopedics
Rehabilitation is a specialized field that requires four years of study, and it cannot be adequately explained in just a few sentences. It is best for you to visit a hospital in person for a physician to assess your condition and discuss it with you. This approach will provide th...

Effective Rehabilitation Tips for Ankle Fracture Recovery

Hello Doctor: I sustained a fracture on the inner and outer sides of my right ankle on July 1, and underwent surgery to insert a steel pin on July 2. It has now been one month, and there are surgical sites on both sides. I had my cast removed in the second week post-surgery and h...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Poor mobility after ankle surgery is normal, and it is essential to continue rehabilitation exercises for both your ankle and knee joints. This is the only way to gradually regain function. Typically, recovery takes about three months.

Post-Surgery Rehabilitation for Ankle Ligament Reconstruction

Hello Dr. Chen, I underwent ligament reconstruction surgery for chronic ankle instability in early May, where the ligaments were sutured and absorbable screws were used on the bones. Although my walking is still not quite normal, I can walk with a brace. The doctor mentioned that...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Ligament repair and reconstruction surgery typically requires a recovery period of at least eight weeks. Generally, after the recovery period, there may be joint stiffness, which necessitates active rehabilitation.

Recovering from Knee Surgery: Tips for Optimal Rehabilitation

Hello Dr. Yeh. I previously inquired about rehabilitation for my knee. It has been over five months since my surgery in mid-December, but I am still unable to walk normally. I don't know if it's due to my age or improper posture. I can only manage to take a few steps, a...

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics
Five months after knee surgery, I need to understand the condition of the fracture and the post-operative situation, so I will need to review X-rays to provide accurate rehabilitation recommendations. There is ankle pain, and I am unsure if there was an initial injury. If there w...