How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Broken Ankle

A broken ankle is a common injury that can happen due to a fall, sports-related accident, or other trauma. It can cause significant pain and discomfort, and it may take several weeks or even months to fully recover. The recovery time depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, and the type of treatment. And the individual’s overall health. In this article, we will explore the recovery process of a broken ankle and provide some tips on how to recover faster.

How to Start Walking After a Broken Ankle

Walking after a broken ankle can be a challenge. But it’s important to start moving as soon as possible to prevent muscle stiffness and improve blood circulation. Initially, you may need to use crutches or a walker to support your weight. And prevent putting too much pressure on the injured ankle.

After a few weeks, you may be able to start bearing some weight on the injured ankle. However, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and gradually increase the amount of weight-bearing to avoid re-injury.

Physical therapy is also an important part of the recovery process. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to improve your ankle strength, flexibility, and range of motion. They can also help you develop a walking plan. That’s safe and effective for your specific injury.

How Long Does a Broken Ankle Fibula Take to Heal

The fibula is one of the two bones in the lower leg that connects to the ankle joint. A broken fibula can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. The recovery time for a broken ankle fibula depends on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment.

If the fracture is non-displaced, meaning the bone is still aligned. It may heal in around six weeks with the use of a cast or brace. However, if the fracture is displaced, meaning the bone is out of alignment, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone and hold it in place with plates and screws. In this case, the recovery time may take up to three months.

Broken Ankle Surgery Plate Screws Recovery Time

If surgery is necessary to treat a broken ankle. It usually involves realigning the broken bone fragments and holding them in place with plates and screws. The recovery time for a broken ankle surgery with plate and screws depends on the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health.

After surgery, you will likely need to wear a cast or brace for several weeks to allow the bone to heal. You may also need physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the ankle. The recovery time can range from six weeks to three months or longer. Depending on the extent of the injury.

Broken Ankle Recovery Time Without Surgery

If surgery is not necessary to treat a broken ankle. The recovery time can vary depending on the type of treatment. A non-displaced fracture may require immobilization in a cast or brace for around six weeks. A displaced fracture may require manual realignment and immobilization in a cast or brace for up to 12 weeks.

During the recovery period. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid putting too much weight on the injured ankle. Physical therapy may also be recommended to improve strength and flexibility in the ankle.

Fractured Ankle Recovery Time Moon Boot

A moon boot, also known as a walking boot or orthopedic boot, is a type of cast or brace that can be removed for cleaning and physical therapy. It provides support and protection for a fractured ankle while allowing some degree of mobility.

The recovery time for a fractured ankle with a moon boot depends on the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health. In general, it can take up to six weeks for a non-displaced fracture and up to 12 weeks for a displaced fracture to heal with the use of a moon boot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Broken Ankle?

The recovery time for a broken ankle can vary depending on several factors such as the severity of the injury, the type of treatment, and the individual’s overall health. Generally, it can take several weeks to several months for a broken ankle to fully heal and for the individual to resume normal activities.

How long does it take to walk normally after a broken ankle?

Walking normally after a broken ankle can take several weeks or even months. Depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and gradually increase weight-bearing on the injured ankle to avoid re-injury.

In some cases, physical therapy may also be necessary to improve ankle strength, flexibility, and range of motion. With consistent effort and adherence to a rehabilitation program. Most individuals can return to normal activities and walking within three to six months after a broken ankle.

Can you fully recover from a broken ankle?

Yes, it is possible to fully recover from a broken ankle. However, the recovery time and extent of recovery can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment. In some cases, residual pain or stiffness may be present even after the bone has healed. Physical therapy and regular exercise can help improve the strength and flexibility of the ankle and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Will my ankle ever be the same after a break?

After a broken ankle, it’s possible that the ankle may not be exactly the same as it was before the injury. However, with proper treatment and rehabilitation, most individuals can achieve a level of function and mobility that is similar to their pre-injury state.

Some individuals may experience residual pain, stiffness, or weakness in the ankle after a broken ankle. However, these symptoms can usually be managed with physical therapy, exercise, and other treatments as needed.

Can an ankle fracture heal in 4 weeks?

The healing time for an ankle fracture can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the type of fracture, and the individual’s overall health. In general, it can take several weeks to several months for an ankle fracture to heal completely.

A minor fracture, such as a hairline fracture or a non-displaced fracture. May heal in as little as four weeks with proper treatment and rehabilitation. However, a more severe fracture, such as a displaced fracture or a fracture requires surgery. May take longer to heal and may require several months of rehabilitation before the individual can resume normal activities.