Ankle rehab...how am I doing?

[physiobob]

Sounds to me like you're actually doing really well. An open compound fracture with plates and screws in the bones of the foot/ankle as well. It's the later (not the fibula) that would be more of a concern, especially that they heal effectively. Don't overdo it at this stage as you want to see on the MRI that there's good healing and blood flow to those fractured in the foot.

You seem positive and yes it is a matter of just getting on with in initially. I wouldn't think activities like running would be on the cards yet. Your physio will be able to provide a structured reloading program once the surgeon has given the all clear. You will need to do a bit more dynamic rehab if you do want to get back to sports involving running and it is worth it.

Often injuries to the knee are overlooked after an acute trauma to the ankle. All focus would have been on the ankle and as that was non-weightbearing you might not have noticed the knee issue until you began full weight-bearing. You might have some articular damage there as well so again be careful not to aggravate the knee at this stage until you get those results.

Best of luck

[Courier]

Thank you both, I just get worried that after such a long time not load bearing, and keeping my foot off the floor, I might be too hesitant in pushing it.

I saw my physiotherapist the other day for the first time in three weeks and he was very happy. Once my ankle warms up through the day, I can walk reasonably well for about 10 metres before it gets painful...the pain is actually in my shin, which it odd. But thats the improvement from the last time I wrote on here, so I have to feel happy with that.

I am taking paracetamol and Ibuprofen as and when I need them. I think its my GP, not my surgeon, who is responsible for my pain relief, but I've had to change doctors in the mean time aswell so I'm out on a limb with it at the moment. I think both of these are safe to take indefinately and they give me enough relief to do my exercises

Thank you for the time frame, physiodan. I think sometimes people shy away from even giving a ball-park estimate for healing time, just in case they get held to it when theres a variation, but its useful for me to know that.

As for the knee, you are spot on physiobob. When I was first in hospital I had bruises all over the place and obviously wasn't walking on the leg. I noticed the numbness in my skin weeks after, as the other bruises were receding, so it will be good to get a diagnosis.

Its rare that the knee is painful, but it often feels uncomfortable and doesn't have a smooth motion. Last night I knocked it and there was a ripping sound, although the pain went off quickly.

My surgeon mentioned the possibility of an arthroscopy. I'd be tempted not to poke about to be honest but if its not healing on its own after 4 months then maybe it will need a helping hand.

Thank you once again. My physiotherapist is brilliant, its just I forget somethings beause, like knocking my knee last night...I'd normally forget about that by the time I see him.

Regards x x