Swelling in the Right Leg After Ankle Surgery: Recovery Insights

Swelling of the right foot?

Hello Dr.
Lee, I would like to ask you: I have a fracture of the tibia and fibula in my right calf, and a rupture of the medial ligament in my right ankle.
I underwent surgery nine weeks ago.
May I ask: 1.
I am currently walking about 15-20 minutes to work every day (without crutches), and the area around the medial ligament of my right ankle and the entire calf tends to swell.
However, after applying heat and elevating my foot at night, the swelling reduces by the next day.
Is this normal? How long might this situation take to improve? 2.
Will walking like this affect my recovery, and is there a possibility that the ligaments or bones could re-fracture? If they were to re-fracture, what symptoms would I experience? Thank you.

Azhou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/15

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics

Hello, in response to your question...
1.
Based on your description, the swelling in your calves after walking, which improves with heat therapy and elevation at night, is normal.
If there are no other factors involved (such as pre-existing heart or kidney issues, or incomplete treatment of fractures or tendon problems), this type of swelling, fatigue, and weakness is characteristic of the recovery phase.
Generally, these symptoms will resolve within three to six months.
2.
Your condition is best understood by your attending physician.
Even though textbooks may state that you can bear weight six weeks after an ankle fracture, the actual timeline must be adjusted based on the patient's age, activity level, weight, the severity of the fracture, and the degree of fracture reduction.
Therefore, if your attending physician says you can bear weight, you can do so with confidence.
If a re-fracture occurs, the most typical symptom would be pain severe enough to prevent walking.
Keelung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, Li Wen-Lin.

Reply Date: 2004/12/15

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your recovery after ankle surgery. It’s great to hear that you are actively engaging in your rehabilitation process. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Swelling in the Right Leg: It is quite common to experience swelling in the leg and ankle after surgery, especially following fractures and ligament repairs. The swelling you notice in your right ankle and calf after walking is likely due to a combination of factors, including inflammation from the surgical site, increased blood flow to the area as part of the healing process, and possibly some residual fluid accumulation. The fact that the swelling decreases with elevation and heat application is a positive sign, indicating that your body is responding well to these interventions. Typically, swelling can persist for several weeks to months post-surgery, but it should gradually improve as healing progresses. You might expect to see a significant reduction in swelling over the next few weeks, but individual recovery times can vary based on factors such as the extent of the injury, your overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

2. Walking and Recovery: Walking is an essential part of your recovery process, as it helps to restore mobility and strength. However, it’s crucial to listen to your body. If you experience significant pain or increased swelling after walking, it may be a sign that you are overdoing it. It’s advisable to gradually increase your walking duration and intensity, ensuring that you are not pushing yourself too hard. As for the risk of re-injury, while it is possible for ligaments and bones to re-injure, this typically occurs under significant stress or trauma. Symptoms of a re-injury may include sudden, sharp pain, swelling, instability in the joint, or difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult your physician or physical therapist promptly.

In summary, the swelling you are experiencing is a normal part of the healing process after ankle surgery, and it should improve over time. Continue to engage in your rehabilitation exercises as advised by your healthcare provider, and be mindful of your body’s signals. If you have any concerns about your recovery or experience any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team for guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help ensure a smooth recovery. Wishing you a speedy recovery!

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