Managing Ankle Fractures: Using Braces and Returning to Sports - Orthopedics

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Managing ankle fractures, particularly those involving both bone and ligament injuries, requires careful attention to healing and rehabilitation. Based on your situation, where you sustained a fracture of the posterior ankle bone along with a ligament tear, it’s encouraging to hear that your doctor has determined that surgery is not necessary and that your bone is beginning to heal.


Transitioning to a Brace
Wearing a pneumatic ankle brace is a positive step in your recovery process. This type of brace provides support and stability while allowing for some mobility. The fact that you have transitioned to this brace indicates that your doctor believes your ankle is healing sufficiently to begin bearing some weight. However, it is essential to follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding weight-bearing activities. Generally, if your doctor has advised that you can start to bear weight, you may begin to gradually put weight on your ankle while using the brace for support.


Use of Crutches
Regarding the use of crutches, if your doctor has indicated that you can start to bear weight, you may be able to reduce your reliance on crutches. However, it is often recommended to keep them handy for safety, especially when you are first starting to walk on the injured ankle. If you experience pain or instability while attempting to walk, it is advisable to continue using crutches until you feel more confident and stable.


Gradual Return to Activity
As for engaging in self-weight-bearing exercises like lunges or cycling on a stationary bike, this can be beneficial for maintaining strength and mobility in your leg. However, it is crucial to listen to your body and not push through pain. If you experience discomfort or increased pain while performing these activities, it may be a sign that you need to scale back or modify your approach.


Hiking and Other Activities
Regarding your question about returning to hiking or similar activities in about two weeks, this will largely depend on your progress and how your ankle feels. It is essential to have a follow-up appointment with your doctor to assess the healing process before engaging in more strenuous activities. Hiking can put significant stress on your ankle, especially on uneven terrain, so it is vital to ensure that you have adequate strength and stability before attempting such activities.


General Recommendations
1. Follow-Up Appointments: Keep your follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor the healing process. They may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the healing of the fracture.

2. Physical Therapy: If not already recommended, consider engaging in physical therapy. A physical therapist can provide you with a tailored rehabilitation program that focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and stability to your ankle.

3. Pain Management: If you experience pain during your rehabilitation exercises, consider using ice and elevation to manage swelling and discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medications may also be helpful, but consult your doctor before taking any new medications.

4. Listen to Your Body: It is crucial to pay attention to your body’s signals. If you feel pain or instability, it is essential to stop the activity and consult your healthcare provider.

5. Gradual Progression: When you do return to activities like hiking, start with shorter, less strenuous hikes to gauge your ankle's response before gradually increasing the intensity and duration.

In summary, transitioning to a brace is a positive sign in your recovery, and you may begin to bear weight as tolerated. However, continue to use crutches as needed for safety, and consult your doctor before resuming more vigorous activities like hiking. With careful management and appropriate rehabilitation, you can work towards a full recovery and return to your desired sports and activities.