Recovering from Left Ankle Injury: Pain Management and Rehabilitation Tips

Injury to the tendons and ligaments inside the left ankle?

Due to a previous injury where I twisted my left foot, I sustained a hairline fracture in the bones inside.
A few weeks ago, I went to a major hospital for an X-ray, and the orthopedic doctor said that the fractured area is healing.
However, I informed the doctor that the area around my left ankle is still painful.
The doctor mentioned that there might be damage to the tendons or ligaments in the left ankle.
The doctor advised me to engage in rehabilitation frequently, but to avoid any rehabilitation exercises if I experience pain.
After the consultation, the doctor prescribed oral medication (to be taken in the morning and evening).
Recently, I have run out of the oral medication (pain relievers) prescribed by this doctor.
I would like to ask:
1.
Since the bones in my left ankle are healing, can the damage to the tendons or ligaments in the left ankle improve through rehabilitation?
2.
Since I have been visiting a specific clinic for my left ankle injury and have not returned for a follow-up to obtain pain medication, can the pain from the tendon or ligament damage in my left ankle be alleviated by taking pain relievers? (In other words: Can the pain in the injured area be managed with pain medication?) Or (Is it possible to manage the pain without relying on pain medication?)
3.
If I follow the orthopedic doctor's advice for rehabilitation, but I experience persistent pain in the area below my left ankle, what methods can I use to prevent pain in that area while rehabilitating? (In other words: Is there a way to rehabilitate without experiencing pain in the injured area?) Currently, my family opposes my return to the clinic for pain medication to alleviate the pain! (In other words: My family wants me to focus on rehabilitation.) This is my first experience with such a severe injury to my left foot, and I have little experience with care or rehabilitation, so I am asking the doctor for any advice! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Ms. Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/26

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation

1.
To assess the severity of ligament injuries, it is essential to perform the correct rehabilitation exercises.

2.
The occurrence of pain serves as a warning from the body; if ligament strength is restored, the pain will decrease.

3.
It is recommended to undergo musculoskeletal ultrasound examination to understand the condition of the ligament injury and to receive appropriate reparative treatment to minimize the use of pain medications.

Reply Date: 2022/08/26

More Info

Recovering from a left ankle injury, especially one involving bone fractures and potential ligament damage, can be a challenging process. It’s essential to approach rehabilitation with a comprehensive understanding of the injury and the appropriate management strategies. Here are some insights and recommendations based on your situation:

1. Rehabilitation Potential for Ligament and Muscle Damage
When a bone fracture heals, it’s not uncommon for surrounding soft tissues, such as ligaments and muscles, to sustain damage as well. In your case, if the orthopedic doctor indicated that there might be damage to the ligaments or tendons around the ankle, rehabilitation can indeed help. Physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and function to the injured area.
Therapeutic exercises can enhance blood flow, promote healing, and improve the range of motion. However, it’s crucial to follow a tailored rehabilitation program designed by a physical therapist. They can provide specific exercises that gradually increase in intensity, ensuring that you do not exacerbate the pain or cause further injury.

2. Pain Management with Medication
Regarding the use of pain relief medication, it can be beneficial in managing discomfort during the recovery process. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, relying solely on medication is not a long-term solution.
While pain relief can make rehabilitation more tolerable, it’s important to address the underlying issues through physical therapy. If you find that the pain is significantly impacting your ability to perform rehabilitation exercises, it may be worth discussing with your doctor the possibility of a prescription for a stronger pain reliever or alternative pain management strategies.

3. Managing Pain During Rehabilitation
If you experience pain during rehabilitation, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize discomfort:
- Modify Exercises: Communicate with your physical therapist about your pain levels. They can modify exercises to reduce strain on the injured area while still promoting healing.

- Use Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area after exercises can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Aim for 15-20 minutes of icing, several times a day, especially after physical activity.

- Gradual Progression: Start with low-impact activities and gradually increase intensity as tolerated. Activities such as swimming or cycling can be less stressful on the ankle compared to running.

- Supportive Devices: Consider using ankle braces or supports during rehabilitation to stabilize the joint and alleviate pain. These devices can provide additional support and reduce the risk of re-injury.

- Rest and Recovery: Ensure you are allowing adequate time for rest and recovery between rehabilitation sessions. Overworking the injured area can lead to increased pain and prolong the healing process.

Conclusion
In summary, while your left ankle injury involves complexities such as potential ligament damage, rehabilitation is a crucial component of recovery. With the right approach, including tailored physical therapy, appropriate pain management, and gradual progression of activities, you can work towards regaining strength and function in your ankle.
It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers, including your orthopedic doctor and physical therapist, to ensure that your rehabilitation plan is effective and adjusted as needed based on your progress and pain levels. Remember, patience and consistency are key in the recovery process.

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