Recovery After Cast Removal: Tips for Ankle Injury Patients

[About removing the cast and directly using the affected limb]

Hello Dr.
Shi, thank you for this platform that allows patients and doctors to communicate.
To help you understand my condition, please allow me to describe it.
In July, I inverted my right ankle while exercising.
I was immediately taken to the emergency room where I was put in a cast.
Two days later, the doctor diagnosed me with a severe ligament injury.
Although there was no bone damage, I was required to wear a splint for stabilization.

By the end of August, five weeks later, I had the cast removed.
During the time I was in the cast, I relied on two crutches for support while walking.
I began to experience pain in my left leg (the non-injured leg), particularly in the knee and ankle.
I understand this is a consequence of bearing my entire body weight on one leg.

After the cast was removed, I noticed two days later that I could walk without crutches.
However, the injured limb is still swollen, and while it is sore when used, it is bearable.
The doctor mentioned that I should be able to walk with a single crutch at my follow-up appointment in a month.
I would like to ask for your clarification on two points:
1.
If I start walking without crutches, will it affect my recovery or leave any long-term issues?
2.
My left knee is very sore, and I have been using a knee brace.
What methods can help alleviate this pain?
I am a bit worried, and I appreciate your understanding of a patient's concerns regarding their injury.
Thank you.

Tracy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/04

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

An ankle ligament sprain typically takes about six to twelve weeks to heal.
It has been nearly six weeks, and you can remove the cast and start exercising.
If you can walk adequately, you may not need to use crutches.
Swelling in the affected limb is expected due to prolonged inactivity, which can lead to poorer circulation.
Not using crutches will not have any adverse effects.
If your knee feels sore, you can apply heat or take some medication to alleviate the discomfort.
Additionally, engaging in rehabilitation exercises can help gradually restore function.

Reply Date: 2015/09/04

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding recovery after cast removal for your ankle injury. It’s completely understandable to have questions about the healing process, especially after experiencing a significant injury like a severe ligament sprain. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Impact of Not Using Crutches: After removing the cast, it’s common to feel uncertain about how to proceed with mobility. While it’s encouraging that you can walk without crutches, it’s essential to listen to your body. Gradually transitioning away from crutches is generally advisable, but you should do so cautiously. If you experience significant pain or instability while walking, it may be wise to continue using crutches or at least a single crutch for additional support until you feel more confident. The goal is to avoid putting too much stress on the healing ligaments, which could lead to setbacks in your recovery.
It’s also important to note that while some swelling and discomfort are normal during the recovery phase, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. They may recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the ankle and improve stability, which can be beneficial in preventing future injuries.

2. Managing Knee Pain in the Non-Injured Leg: It’s not uncommon for the non-injured leg to experience discomfort when compensating for the injured leg, especially if you’ve been relying on it heavily for support. Wearing a knee brace can provide some stability and comfort, but there are additional strategies you can employ to alleviate knee pain:
- Rest and Ice: Ensure you give your knee adequate rest and apply ice to reduce any swelling or inflammation.

- Gentle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Engaging in gentle range-of-motion exercises can help maintain flexibility in your knee. Strengthening exercises for the quadriceps and hamstrings can also support the knee joint.

- Gradual Weight-Bearing: As you start to put more weight on your injured ankle, try to distribute your weight evenly between both legs. This can help reduce the strain on your non-injured leg.

- Physical Therapy: If the pain persists, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide tailored exercises and modalities to help manage pain and improve function.

3. General Recovery Tips:
- Follow-Up Appointments: Keep your follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your healing progress. They can assess your ankle and knee and make recommendations based on your recovery.

- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to increased activity. If you feel pain, it’s a sign to slow down and allow more time for healing.

- Stay Active Within Limits: Engage in low-impact activities that do not exacerbate your pain, such as swimming or cycling, as these can help maintain your fitness without putting too much strain on your ankle or knee.

In conclusion, while it’s great that you’re feeling more mobile after cast removal, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. Gradually increasing your activity level while monitoring your body’s response will be key to a successful recovery. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms worsen, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery!

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