Managing Swelling and Mobility After a Leg Fracture: Key Questions

Please consult regarding issues related to calf fractures, such as redness, swelling, and walking difficulties?

Hello Dr.
Lee, I had a motorcycle accident on January 31, resulting in two fractured bones in my left calf.
I underwent surgery at Taichung Veterans General Hospital and had a steel plate inserted.
I was discharged on March 20.
Currently, my calf swells and feels uncomfortable after sitting or standing for a long time, and I occasionally experience bone pain.
I would like to ask two questions:
1.
Besides elevating my leg, what else can I do to alleviate the swelling in my calf?
2.
Is it currently safe for me to walk using both feet without a walker? Sometimes I forget to use the walker and take a few steps.
Will this affect bone healing? Could the steel plate become deformed?
Thank you for your response.

Amy, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/04/03

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics

1.
Heat therapy can be applied, and range of motion exercises for the knee and ankle joints should be performed.
2.
X-rays should be used to monitor whether the bone has healed; if it has not healed, the plate may become deformed.

Reply Date: 2012/04/03

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your recovery after a leg fracture. It’s great to hear that you are actively seeking information to manage your condition effectively. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Managing Swelling: Swelling in the lower leg after a fracture is quite common, especially in the early stages of recovery. In addition to elevating your leg, which helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return, you can also consider the following strategies:
- Compression: Using a compression bandage or stocking can help control swelling. Make sure it’s not too tight, as this can impede circulation.

- Cold Therapy: Applying ice packs to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

- Gentle Movement: While resting is important, gentle movements and exercises (as advised by your physical therapist) can help improve circulation and reduce swelling. Ankle pumps, where you flex and point your toes, can be beneficial.

- Hydration and Diet: Staying well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids) can also support your recovery.

2. Walking Without Assistive Devices: It’s understandable to want to regain your mobility, but caution is essential. If you are still in the early stages of recovery, using a walker or crutches is advisable to ensure you do not put undue stress on your healing bones. Walking without assistance can potentially:
- Affect Bone Healing: Putting weight on a healing fracture too soon can lead to complications such as delayed healing or malunion (where the bones heal incorrectly).

- Impact the Hardware: While the metal plate is designed to stabilize the fracture, excessive or improper weight-bearing can lead to discomfort or even displacement of the hardware, although it is generally quite stable.

- Risk of Falls: Without proper support, you increase your risk of falling, which could lead to further injury.

If you find yourself forgetting to use your assistive device, it might be helpful to set reminders or keep the device in a location that is always visible to you. Always consult with your orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist before making changes to your mobility routine. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and recovery progress.

In summary, managing swelling involves a combination of elevation, compression, cold therapy, and gentle movement. As for mobility, it’s crucial to adhere to your rehabilitation plan and use assistive devices until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider. This will help ensure a safe and effective recovery process. Wishing you a smooth recovery and the best of health!

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