Recovering from Fibula Fracture: Walking and Rehabilitation Tips

Left ankle fibula fracture?

Hello, last month I fractured my left fibula (I had surgery to insert screws and plates), and I have been wearing a protective boot since then.
My doctor said I could try walking, but I'm unsure how to apply pressure and whether I should step down fully or just lightly.
Additionally, I have been doing some simple rehabilitation exercises at home to strengthen my foot.
My ankle clearly cannot bend at the same angle as a normal foot, so I would like to know what range of motion I can work with.
Should I gradually try to bend it to see how far I can't bend, or should I just work within the current range that I can bend? Thank you for your response!

Rrr, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/15

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

After surgery for an ankle joint fracture, it is usually possible to walk with weight-bearing.
You can try using two crutches and gently place the affected foot on the ground.
To gauge the weight, you can step on a regular scale, starting with about ten percent of your body weight and gradually increasing it.
This is referred to as partial weight bearing.
Over time, you will be able to bear more weight, and eventually, if there is no pain, you can fully bear weight and discontinue the use of crutches.
Typically, within two to three months, you should be able to perform dorsiflexion and plantarflexion movements of the ankle joint.
If the joint still feels tight, you can apply heat to help soften it before exercising.
In general, you can perform both upward and downward movements, but avoid lateral movements (inversion and eversion) for the first six weeks.

Reply Date: 2015/07/15

More Info

Recovering from a fibula fracture can be a challenging process, but with the right approach to rehabilitation and walking, you can regain strength and mobility. Given your situation where you had surgery to place screws and plates in your fibula, it's essential to follow a structured rehabilitation plan while also listening to your body.

Walking and Weight Bearing
When your doctor advises you to start walking, it typically means you can begin to put some weight on your injured leg. However, the amount of weight you should apply can vary based on your comfort level and the specific guidance from your healthcare provider. Here are some general tips:
1. Start Gradually: Begin by placing a small amount of weight on your injured leg. You can do this by lightly touching your foot to the ground while using crutches or a walker for support. This is often referred to as "toe-touch weight bearing." As you gain confidence and strength, you can gradually increase the weight you place on your leg.

2. Use Support: Continue using your protective boot or brace as recommended by your doctor. This will help stabilize your ankle and provide support as you start to walk. If you feel comfortable, you can transition from crutches to a single cane or even walking without assistance, but only when you feel ready.

3. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort. If you experience significant pain while walking, it may be a sign that you are putting too much weight on your leg too soon. Adjust your weight-bearing as needed and consult your doctor if pain persists.

Rehabilitation Exercises
Incorporating rehabilitation exercises into your routine is crucial for regaining strength and flexibility in your ankle. Here are some exercises you can consider, but always consult your healthcare provider or a physical therapist before starting any new exercise regimen:
1. Ankle Pumps: While seated or lying down, flex and point your toes to promote circulation and mobility in your ankle. This can help reduce stiffness.

2. Range of Motion Exercises: Gently move your ankle in circles or side to side within a pain-free range. This will help improve flexibility. If you find that you can bend your ankle more than before, gradually increase the range of motion, but do not force it.

3. Heel Slides: While lying down, slide your heel towards your buttocks and then back out. This helps with knee and ankle mobility.

4. Strengthening Exercises: Once you have regained some range of motion, you can start strengthening exercises. These may include resistance bands to help with ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion.

5. Balance Exercises: As you progress, incorporate balance exercises such as standing on one leg (with support if necessary) to improve stability.

Monitoring Progress
It's essential to track your progress and communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns. If you notice that your ankle is not improving or if you experience unusual pain, swelling, or instability, reach out to your doctor. They may recommend adjustments to your rehabilitation plan or further imaging to assess the healing process.

Conclusion
Recovering from a fibula fracture requires patience and a commitment to rehabilitation. By following your doctor's advice, gradually increasing your weight-bearing activities, and incorporating appropriate exercises, you can work towards regaining full function in your ankle. Remember, every individual's recovery timeline is different, so focus on your progress and celebrate small victories along the way.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Ankle and Fibula Fractures: Recovery and Rehabilitation Tips

1. It has been over a month since the injury, and although the cast has been removed and you have started practicing walking with crutches, the foot is still swollen. This swelling is likely due to inflammation and fluid accumulation as a result of the injury and surgery. It is c...

Dr. Lin Junliang reply Orthopedics
This user's question is more complex, as there are different surgical methods for the same fracture, and postoperative rehabilitation is also necessary. The swelling in the leg after surgery is due to poor blood circulation. As for other issues, it is best to visit an outpat...

Effective Home Rehabilitation Exercises for Fibula Fracture Recovery

Hello Dr. Li, I would like to ask about my right distal fibula fracture (with a crack) that has been 3 months since the injury. A few days ago, I had my cast removed, and the doctor said that I should use crutches for assistance while walking for the next month. I would like to k...

Dr. Li Weiqiang reply Rehabilitation
Dear Mr. Chen, Do you feel stiffness after the cast was removed from your distal fibula fracture near the ankle joint on your right foot? You can soak it in warm water (around 40 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes) and try to move your ankle as much as possible. You may use crutches...

Rehabilitation After Cast Removal: Walking Again Post-Fibula Fracture

Hello Doctor: I have a fibula fracture and have had a cast for 5 weeks. I had the cast removed on June 29. I would like to ask if I can start practicing walking now. Thank you, Doctor.

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
The bones of the lower leg include the tibia and fibula. If only the fibula is fractured, rehabilitation can typically begin after the cast is removed for proximal and midshaft fractures, as they do not involve joint stability. However, for distal fractures that affect ankle join...

Improving Recovery from Tibia and Fibula Fractures: Tips for Pain and Swelling

Hello Doctor: I had surgery last September and started using a walker in January. Now, when I walk, my foot becomes red (sometimes resembling a bruise), and it also swells and hurts on the sole. What methods can help improve this? Could the poor circulation in my foot be due to t...

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello, after a lower limb fracture, prolonged local swelling can lead to poor venous return in the lower extremities. To alleviate swelling and pain, elevating the legs and performing hydrotherapy (alternating hot and cold water immersion), as well as exercising the joints throug...