Do Ankle Fractures Require Rehabilitation? Recovery Needs - Orthopedics

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Ankle fractures, including fibula fractures, often require rehabilitation to ensure proper healing and recovery of function. In your mother's case, having sustained a fibula fracture six weeks ago, it is not uncommon for her to experience pain and weakness in the ankle, especially when attempting to lift the foot. This is a typical response as the body heals, but it also indicates that rehabilitation could be beneficial.


Importance of Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery process after an ankle fracture. Here are several reasons why rehabilitation is important:
1. Restoration of Range of Motion: After a fracture, the surrounding muscles and joints can become stiff. Rehabilitation exercises can help restore the normal range of motion in the ankle, which is essential for walking and other daily activities.

2. Strengthening Muscles: Following immobilization, the muscles around the ankle may weaken. Rehabilitation focuses on strengthening these muscles to support the joint and prevent future injuries.

3. Pain Management: A structured rehabilitation program can help manage pain through various modalities, including physical therapy techniques, ice, and electrical stimulation.

4. Functional Training: Rehabilitation can include exercises that mimic daily activities, helping your mother regain confidence in her ability to walk and perform other tasks without fear of re-injury.

5. Preventing Complications: Early rehabilitation can help prevent complications such as stiffness, muscle atrophy, and chronic pain, which can arise from prolonged inactivity.


When to Start Rehabilitation
In general, rehabilitation can begin once the fracture has stabilized and the doctor has cleared the patient for movement. Since your mother has already been six weeks post-injury, it may be an appropriate time to consult with her healthcare provider about starting rehabilitation.

Recommended Steps
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before starting any rehabilitation program, it is essential to consult with her orthopedic surgeon or primary care physician. They can assess her current condition and determine if she is ready for rehabilitation.

2. Physical Therapy: If cleared, your mother may benefit from working with a physical therapist who can design a personalized rehabilitation program. This program will likely include exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and balance.

3. Gradual Progression: Rehabilitation should be gradual. Starting with gentle range-of-motion exercises and progressing to strength training and functional activities is crucial. The therapist will monitor her progress and adjust the program as needed.

4. Home Exercises: In addition to formal therapy sessions, your mother can perform some gentle exercises at home, such as ankle pumps, toe raises, and gentle stretching, as advised by her therapist.

5. Listen to Her Body: It is important for her to listen to her body during rehabilitation. If she experiences significant pain, she should communicate this to her therapist or doctor, as it may indicate that she is pushing too hard.


Conclusion
In summary, rehabilitation is an essential component of recovery from an ankle fracture. Given your mother's ongoing symptoms of pain and weakness, it would be advisable for her to seek a professional evaluation to determine the best course of action. Early intervention through rehabilitation can significantly enhance her recovery, improve her functional abilities, and help her return to her normal activities with confidence.