Ankle injuries can be debilitating and time-consuming to heal. However, surgery may become necessary in extreme cases to fix severe ankle fractures, dislocations, or ankle arthritis. If you undergo surgery for your ankle, a full recovery is vital to regain your mobility. One of the main concerns during your ankle surgery rehab stage is to avoid re-injury and speed up recovery time.
Here’s an overview of the rehabilitation process after ankle surgery and some tips to help make your recovery as smooth as possible.
What Is Ankle Surgery Rehab?
Ankle surgery rehab is a program that helps you recover from ankle surgery. It usually involves exercises to improve strength and flexibility, as well as education about how to avoid re-injury.
The goal of rehab is to help you get back to your regular activities, whether walking, running, playing sports, or simply going about your daily life. Without rehab, you could end up with stiffness, weakness, or even long-term disability.
The length of rehab varies depending on the type of surgery you had and your individual needs. Some people may only need a few weeks of rehab, while others may need several months. Your ankle doctor or physical therapist will give you an estimate based on your progress.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Ankle Surgery
Here are some easy tips that you can follow to speed up your healing following ankle surgery.
Tip #1 Follow Your Foot and Ankle Specialist’s Instructions
Your ankle surgeon and physical therapist will give you personalized guidelines for your rehabilitation process. These may include taking your medication as prescribed, attending all rehab sessions, and following any restrictions on activity. Following these guidelines is essential to ensure proper healing.
While general exercise plans are useful, following your unique instructions is vital to guarantee safety and reduce possible re-injury. If you have any questions regarding your instructions, don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon.
Tip #2 Wear A Brace or Cast
Your rehabilitation involves wearing a boot or brace that protects your ankle as it heals. The boot or brace will help stabilize the ankle as well as reduce the chances of re-injury.
The time period may vary depending on your injury’s severity; however, most individuals need to wear the boot or brace for several weeks post-surgery.
Tip #3 Monitor Pain and Swelling
After surgery, it’s common to experience some pain and swelling around the ankle. Monitoring your pain and swelling levels and reporting them to your foot and ankle specialist is essential.
Report any sudden onset of fever, redness, or discharge from the incision, as it might indicate infection.
Tip #4 Take Care of Incisions
Ankle surgery involves incisions, and care must be taken to keep them clean and dry to prevent infections. You’ll be given specific instructions to keep the incision dry, clean, and free from dirt and dust.
Ensure that you keep the incision bandage dry and change it when necessary.
Tip #5 Engage in Rehabilitation Exercises
Rehabilitation exercises are vital in regaining mobility and strength in the ankle joint after surgery. Your physical therapist will prescribe specific exercises best suited for your recovery process.
The exercises may include stretching, light weight-bearing exercises, and strengthening exercises. Engage in the rehab exercises diligently for effective results.
Tip #6 Don’t Put Too Much Weight on Your Foot
After ankle surgery, it’s essential to keep weight off the foot as prescribed by your foot and ankle specialist. Putting too much pressure on your foot immediately after surgery can undo the benefits of your operation and, in severe cases, require a second surgery.
Tip #7 Maintain A Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for recovering from an ankle injury or surgery. Eating healthy foods can help you recover faster from ankle surgery and strengthen your overall immune system.
Foods high in Vitamin D, calcium, and protein are critical for bone and muscle health.
Tip #8 Stay Positive
Recovery can be long and sometimes frustrating, but a positive attitude can make it easier. Remember to celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
Foot and Ankle Specialist Near Me in Port Charlotte, Florida
Here at Advanced Orthopedic Center, we understand that ankle surgery is more than just a procedure – it’s the first step on your path to recovery. Our highly skilled, board-certified foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Steven Anthony, is committed to offering personalized rehabilitative programs designed to restore your mobility, strengthen your ankle, and help you regain confidence in your movement.
Our comprehensive approach to care doesn’t end in the operating room. We also guide you through every stage of your rehabilitation journey.
To learn more about our ankle surgery services or to schedule a consultation, call our offices today at (941) 629-6262 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
