How long does it take before I can walk after a broken ankle

The ankle joint is one of the most important tissues for us to walk. If the ankle joint is accidentally fractured, it will have a great impact on us, and we will almost be unable to walk freely. Ankle fractures will bring great pain to patients, so once the ankle joint is fractured, you need to go to the hospital immediately for fixation. Fractures require a recovery process, so how long does it take for the ankle joint to be able to walk again?

1. How long does it take to walk after an ankle fracture?

In any case, we may need to wear a brace or cast on our leg or ankle for a period of time to help the injured bone and joint heal.

After an ankle fracture, we may not be able to use many foot functions in our daily lives, such as walking or driving a car. Even if you like to exercise, you must wait for a while before you can slowly resume your activities.

During your injury, it is important to work closely with your doctor or physical therapist, who will help you achieve your ultimate mobility and exercise goals for your injured ankle.

2. Common (injury) symptoms after ankle fracture:

1. Swelling

2. Pain

3. Reduced range of motion (ROM)

4. Reduced exercise intensity

5. Tight scar tissue (if you have undergone surgery)

6. Reduced sense of balance and proprioception

7. Walking and running are difficult or impossible

In the early stages of the injury, you may need a walker or crutches. The doctor (physical therapist) will help recommend the correct equipment to ensure good recovery effects for later rehabilitation.

Doctors (physical therapists) will also design exercise methods based on the individual's injury to improve the function and range of motion of the injured ankle joint and maximize the body balance of the injured leg.

The growth of bones is strongly related to the stress imposed on them. Your doctor or physical therapist will use a certain amount of weight during the recovery process to improve the efficiency of recovery and ensure the best results for the healing of your ankle fracture.

3. When is the best time to start exercising?

Simply put, everyone's situation is different, and the location and severity of the injury are all differentiating factors. These factors limit the ability to return to play after an ankle or foot fracture, including:

1. The severity of the fracture or injury;

2. Whether surgical intervention had been performed;

3. Whether physical therapy is effective;

4. The degree of effort exerted by the individual during the rehabilitation process.

Generally speaking, we can try to start running about three to four months after the injury.

At this stage, our ankle bones should have healed well, and the range of motion and joint strength should be close to normal. In the initial running training, as long as the pain is not very obvious and the joint mobility and strength are always maintained in good condition.

About 6 to 9 months after the injury, you should be able to move freely and without any hindrance, and there should be no difference compared to your previous healthy state.

However, due to individual differences, some people are able to start running earlier after a broken ankle. Some people also have persistent pain and a continued limited range of motion. They also have limited joint strength long after the injury, so it takes longer to return to motion.

If a runner suffers an ankle fracture, they must work closely with their physician (physiotherapist) to ensure that it is safe for them to run, provide a professional exercise plan for the injured, and achieve their goals and expectations for returning to activity as quickly as possible after an ankle fracture.